# XXII explained — Martin Chuzzlewit

> Chapter companion for Martin Chuzzlewit by Charles Dickens.

## What happens

Martin becomes a local celebrity in Watertoast after purchasing land in Eden, receiving invitations to lecture and a stream of visitors. He reluctantly holds a reception, enduring intense scrutiny from the townspeople, and is introduced to Mrs. Hominy, who will accompany him on his journey.

## Themes in this chapter

### American vs. British Society

Martin's bewilderment at the intrusive, democratic curiosity of the Watertoast citizens highlights cultural contrasts between British reserve and American openness.

### Hypocrisy and Self-Deception

The townspeople's sudden interest in Martin is based on his land purchase, not genuine friendship, revealing self-interested motives masked as hospitality.

## Character check-ins

### Martin Chuzzlewit

Becomes the lion of Watertoast after buying land in Eden; reluctantly hosts a reception and meets Mrs. Hominy.

### Mark Tapley

Martin's partner, observes the absurdity of the situation and tries to keep visitors away.

### La Fayette Kettle

Secretary of the Young Men's Watertoast Association, invites Martin to lecture on the Tower of London.

### Captain Kedgick

Landlord of the National Hotel, arranges Martin's reception and announces the event.

### Mrs. Hominy

Wife of Major Hominy, introduced to Martin as a literary figure who will travel with him toward Eden.

## Key lines

> As soon as it was generally known in the National Hotel, that the young Englishman, Mr. Chuzzlewit, had purchased a 'lo‑cation' in the Valley of Eden, and intended to betake himself to that earthly Paradise by the next steamboat, he became a popular character.

Once word spread that Martin had bought land in Eden and planned to go there soon, he suddenly became a celebrity at the hotel.

_Highlights the sudden fame based on his speculative land purchase._

> You will have to hold a sort of lě⁠—vēe, sir, while you’re here.

You'll need to host a reception while you're in town.

_Captain Kedgick insists Martin must receive visitors, despite Martin's reluctance._

> If Martin put one boot before the other, the lower gentleman was down upon him; he rubbed a pimple on his nose, and the upper gentleman booked it.

Every movement Martin made was observed and recorded by the two reporters from the Watertoast Gazette.

_Illustrates the intense, almost absurd scrutiny Martin endures._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/martin_chuzzlewit_se/chapters/xxii
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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/martin_chuzzlewit_se/chapters