The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling · Chapter
Chapter II explained
This chapter introduces the generous hospitality of Squire Allworthy, who opens his home to men of merit, particularly those of wit and learning.
What happens
This chapter introduces the generous hospitality of Squire Allworthy, who opens his home to men of merit, particularly those of wit and learning. Among his guests are Dr. Blifil, a man of great learning but little fortune, and his brother Captain Blifil, a half-pay officer with a rough exterior but a talent for pleasing others. The doctor, despite his own marital impediment, schemes to promote a match between his brother and Miss Bridget Allworthy, seeing an opportunity to aggrandize his family.
Themes in this chapter
Hypocrisy vs. True Virtue
The doctor's apparent religion and the captain's assumed gentleness are contrasted with their scheming intentions, questioning the authenticity of their virtue.
Benevolence and Generosity
Allworthy's open-hearted hospitality and his tendency to favor those with misfortunes derived from others' folly exemplify the theme of benevolence.
Love and Marriage
The chapter explores marriage as a strategic alliance, with the doctor plotting to match his brother with Miss Bridget for family advancement.
Characters to notice
- Squire Allworthy
Described as a generous host whose house and heart are open to all, especially men of merit. He is a competent judge of literature despite lacking a formal education.
- Captain Blifil
Introduced as the doctor's brother, a half-pay officer with a scar on his forehead, a rough manner, but the ability to appear gentle and good-humored. He is a master of the art of love.
- Mrs. Bridget
Miss Bridget Allworthy is portrayed as a devout, saintlike woman who engages in religious controversies and shows interest in Dr. Blifil's knowledge and compliments.
- Mr. Thwackum
Not directly mentioned in this excerpt, but included as a placeholder for potential future reference.
Key passages
“Neither Mr. Allworthy’s house, nor his heart, were shut against any part of mankind, but they were both more particularly open to men of merit.”
Allworthy's home and affections were universally accessible, but especially welcoming to those of worth.
Establishes Allworthy's character as a generous and discerning host.
“He had not long ruminated on these matters, before it occurred to his memory that he had a brother who was under no such unhappy incapacity.”
After pondering his own situation, the doctor remembered his brother, who was free from the obstacle of marriage.
Reveals the doctor's scheme to use his brother to pursue a match with Miss Bridget.