The Voyages of Doctor Dolittle · Chapter
I Hear of the Great Naturalist explained
Tommy Stubbins rescues a squirrel from a hawk and seeks help from the renowned naturalist Doctor Dolittle.
What happens
Tommy Stubbins rescues a squirrel from a hawk and seeks help from the renowned naturalist Doctor Dolittle. Through conversations with the mussel-man Joe and the cat's-meatman Matthew Mugg, Tommy learns of the Doctor's extraordinary ability to speak animal languages and his reputation as a great naturalist. Matthew takes Tommy to the Doctor's house, where they meet Jip, the Doctor's dog, who guards the locked gate. Tommy learns that the Doctor is away on a voyage and begins visiting the house daily, hoping for his return.
Themes in this chapter
Education and Curiosity
Tommy's curiosity about the natural world and his eagerness to learn from the mussel-man and Matthew Mugg about Doctor Dolittle's knowledge of animals.
Communication with Animals
Matthew reveals that Doctor Dolittle can speak and write animal languages, a central theme introduced in this chapter.
Kindness and Compassion
Tommy's rescue of the injured squirrel and his determination to find help for it demonstrate compassion for animals.
Characters to notice
- Tommy Stubbins
The narrator and protagonist, a young boy who rescues a squirrel and seeks out Doctor Dolittle after learning of his abilities.
- Matthew Mugg
The cat's-meatman who knows Doctor Dolittle well and shares stories about the Doctor's ability to speak animal languages and his adventures.
- Jip
The Doctor's dog, who guards the house while the Doctor is away, wears a solid gold collar, and takes provisions from Matthew through the gate.
- Doctor Dolittle
The great naturalist who is away on a voyage; Tommy learns of his ability to speak animal languages and his reputation as a healer of animals.
Key passages
“He talks their language”
Matthew Mugg whispers to Tommy that Doctor Dolittle can communicate with animals in their own languages.
This revelation introduces the core magical element of the story and establishes the Doctor's unique gift.
“He’s a wonderful man is the Doctor. And as for animals, well, there ain’t no one knows as much about ’em as what he does.”
Matthew Mugg praises Doctor Dolittle's unparalleled knowledge of animals.
This builds the Doctor's reputation as a great naturalist before Tommy meets him.
“I do wish he were home so I could meet him.”
Tommy expresses his eagerness to meet Doctor Dolittle after hearing about his abilities.
This sets up Tommy's motivation and the anticipation for the Doctor's return.