Nicholas Nickleby · Chapter
XXXII explained
Nicholas and Smike arrive in London, where Nicholas's anxiety to see his sister drives him to seek Newman Noggs.
What happens
Nicholas and Smike arrive in London, where Nicholas's anxiety to see his sister drives him to seek Newman Noggs. He overhears a conversation at a tavern in which Sir Mulberry Hawk and his companions mock Kate Nickleby and reveal Ralph's villainy. Confronting Sir Mulberry, Nicholas challenges him and a violent struggle ensues, resulting in Nicholas being thrown from the carriage and injured.
Themes in this chapter
Social Injustice and Corruption
The chapter highlights the corruption of the wealthy (Sir Mulberry, Ralph) who exploit and mock the vulnerable, while the poor struggle in the shadows of opulence.
Family and Loyalty
Nicholas's fierce defense of his sister's honor and his determination to protect her from slander and harm exemplify family loyalty.
Hypocrisy and Appearance vs. Reality
The glittering displays of wealth in London contrast with the poverty and suffering of the crowds, and Sir Mulberry's polished exterior hides his brutal character.
Characters to notice
- Nicholas Nickleby
Arrives in London, confronts Sir Mulberry Hawk after overhearing insults about his sister, and is injured in the ensuing struggle.
- Smike
Travels with Nicholas to London and is awakened upon their arrival.
- Sir Mulberry Hawk
Leads the conversation mocking Kate Nickleby, is challenged by Nicholas, and strikes him with a whip before his carriage bolts.
- Kate Nickleby
Her name and virtue are derided by Sir Mulberry and his companions, prompting Nicholas's confrontation.
- Ralph Nickleby
His villainy is revealed through the overheard conversation.
- Newman Noggs
Not present when Nicholas arrives, but has prepared his room and left word for him.
Key passages
“I am the son of a country gentleman, your equal in birth and education, and your superior I trust in everything besides.”
Nicholas declares himself Sir Mulberry's social equal and morally superior, demanding accountability for his treatment of Kate.
Nicholas asserts his dignity and challenges Sir Mulberry's assumption of superiority.
“Life and death went hand in hand; wealth and poverty stood side by side; repletion and starvation laid them down together.”
The narrator observes the stark contrasts of London, where opulence and misery coexist without regard.
This passage underscores the theme of social injustice and the indifference of the city to human suffering.
“I denounce this person as a liar, and impeach him as a coward.”
Nicholas publicly accuses Sir Mulberry of being both dishonest and a coward.
Nicholas's formal challenge escalates the confrontation and forces the issue of honor.