The Vicar of Bullhampton · Chapter
XI: Don’t You Be Afeard About Me explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Fenwick walks to the mill to confront Sam Brattle about his recent behavior and associations with criminals like Burrows. Despite Fenwick's attempts to reason with him, Sam remains defiant and dismissive. Fenwick later advises Fanny Brattle to keep watch over Sam's activities.
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
This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it represents the emotional and psychological peak of the confl…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Redemption and the Fallen Woman
Fenwick's thoughts of Carry Brattle highlight the theme of lost innocence and the difficulty of redemption.
- Justice and Prejudice
Fenwick's suspicion of Sam based on his associations and past behavior reflects prejudice and the struggle for justice.
- Community and Gossip
The community's watchfulness over Sam's actions and Fenwick's role as moral overseer underscore communal scrutiny.
Characters to notice
- Mr. Fenwick
Visits the mill to confront Sam Brattle, reflecting on past kindness and current disappointment.
- Sam Brattle
Defiantly working on the mill roof, refuses to heed Fenwick's warnings about his criminal associates.
- George Brattle
The miller, seen standing sadly before the mill, lamenting the timing of repairs.
- Fanny Brattle
Stops Fenwick as he leaves, expressing hope and receiving advice to monitor Sam's movements.
- Carry Brattle
Mentioned in Fenwick's thoughts as a lost soul from the village choir, now gone.
Key passages
“Don't you be afeard about me, Mr. Fenwick.”
Don't worry about me, Mr. Fenwick.
Sam's defiant dismissal of Fenwick's concern, showing his resistance to authority.
“I shall keep my eye upon you.”
I will continue to watch you closely.
Fenwick's warning to Sam, indicating his ongoing vigilance.
“The Squire ain't nothing to me.”
The Squire means nothing to me.
Sam's rejection of the Squire's authority, highlighting his alienation from the community.
