Barnaby Rudge · Chapter
Chapter 6 explained
Gabriel Varden and Edward Chester discuss the attack on Edward, with Varden suspecting a connection to Barnaby and his mother.
What happens
Gabriel Varden and Edward Chester discuss the attack on Edward, with Varden suspecting a connection to Barnaby and his mother. The raven Grip displays uncanny intelligence, and Varden leaves with uneasy suspicions about the household's secrets.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
The emotional peak here is the collective dread and anticipation of an execution, as the city’s silence and th…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Madness and Perception
Barnaby's simple-mindedness and his relationship with Grip blur the line between human and animal intelligence.
- Guilt and Retribution
Varden's suspicions and Mrs. Rudge's hidden distress suggest a guilty secret that may lead to retribution.
Characters to notice
- Gabriel Varden
The locksmith, troubled by suspicions about Mrs. Rudge and the mysterious events.
- Edward Chester
The wounded gentleman, recounting the attack and noting the stranger's voice.
- Barnaby Rudge
Delighted by Grip's antics, showing his simple nature and bond with the raven.
- Grip
The raven, displaying remarkable intelligence and a mischievous personality.
- Mrs. Rudge
The widow, visibly distressed and anxious, hiding her emotions.
Key passages
“I have told a lie tonight, for your sake, Mary, and for the sake of bygone times and old acquaintance, when I would scorn to do so for my own.”
I lied tonight to protect you, Mary, because of our past friendship, something I would never do for myself.
Varden reveals his internal conflict and loyalty to Mrs. Rudge.
“He's the master, and I'm the man. Is that the truth, Grip?”
Grip is the one in charge, and I follow him. Isn't that right, Grip?
Barnaby's inverted relationship with the raven highlights his childlike perception.
