# Corporal Trim — The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman character guide > Corporal Trim in The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman by Laurence Sterne. **Role:** supporting **Also known as:** Trim, poor Trim, Mr. Trim **First appearance:** 0004-book-i ## Snapshot Uncle Toby's devoted former corporal, whose earnest speeches and flourishes of rhetoric turn household errands into performances of loyalty and grief. ## Who they are Trim serves Uncle Toby with a soldier's discipline and a preacher's enthusiasm, whether fetching tea, delivering sermons, or nursing the sick. He is loquacious, self-educated, and prone to grand gestures that his master receives with unshakable patience. His devotion to Toby and his knack for turning ordinary moments into moral theater give the novel some of its warmest and funniest scenes. ## Relationships ### [Uncle Toby](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/uncle_toby) _friendship_ Trim is Toby's devoted former servant and closest companion, sharing his military hobby and gentle worldview. ### [Bridget](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/bridget) _romantic_ Bridget, Mrs. Wadman's maid, has a flirtatious and likely romantic relationship with Trim, marked by playful courtship. ### [Mr. Yorick](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/mr_yorick) _friendship_ Trim and Yorick share a warm, respectful friendship, often conversing about Toby and life's absurdities. ### [Susannah](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/susannah) _romantic_ Trim and Susannah, the Shandy maid, share a flirtatious and physically playful relationship, often teasing each other. ### [Mrs. Shandy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/mrs_shandy) _professional_ Trim is a former servant of the Shandy household, and his interactions with Mrs. Shandy are polite but distant. ### [Dr. Slop](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/dr_slop) _social_ Trim and Dr. Slop have limited, mostly comic interactions, with Trim's good nature contrasting Slop's irritability. ### [The French](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/the_french) _rivalry_ Trim, as a former soldier, views the French as wartime adversaries, though his attitude is more nostalgic than hostile. ### [Uncle Toby](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/uncle_toby) _friendship_ Trim is Toby's devoted former servant and closest companion, sharing his military hobby and gentle worldview. ### [Uncle Toby](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/uncle_toby) _friendship_ Trim is Toby's devoted former servant and closest companion, sharing his military hobby and gentle worldview. ### [Bridget](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/bridget) _romantic_ Bridget, Mrs. Wadman's maid, has a flirtatious and likely romantic relationship with Trim, marked by playful courtship. ### [Susannah](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/susannah) _romantic_ Trim and Susannah, the Shandy maid, share a flirtatious and physically playful relationship, often teasing each other. ### [Susannah](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/susannah) _romantic_ Trim and Susannah, the Shandy maid, share a flirtatious and physically playful relationship, often teasing each other. ## In the story ### [The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/the-life-and-opinions-of-tristram-shandy-gentleman) Uncle Toby's loyal servant, who shares his master's military interests and provides comic relief. ### [Book I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/book-i) Uncle Toby's loyal servant, who shares his master's interest in military matters. ### [Book II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/book-ii) Uncle Toby's loyal servant, assisting in his fortification projects. ### [Chapter V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/v) Proposes building fortifications on a bowling-green; his voluble advice and respectful manner endear him to Uncle Toby. ### [Chapter VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/viii) Mentioned as having traveled with Uncle Toby in a chariot-and-four down into Yorkshire. ### [Chapter XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xiv) Sent by Uncle Toby to fetch Stevinus's account; described as lame. ### [Chapter XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xv) Returns with Stevinus, shakes the book to find a sermon, and offers to read it aloud. ### [Chapter XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xvi) Explains that the text is about conscience, then prepares to read distinctly as instructed. ### [Chapter XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xvii) Reads the sermon with deep emotion, believing it describes his brother Tom's torture in Portugal. ### [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iii) Summoned by Toby to fetch the map of Namur and instruments. ### [Chapter XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xx) Busy turning an old pair of jackboots into mortars for the siege of Messina. ### [Chapter XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxii) Brings the mortar-pieces into the parlour, having made them from Walter's old jackboots. ### [Chapter XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiii) Reports that Dr. Slop is in the kitchen making a bridge and delivers Uncle Toby's thanks. ### [Chapter XXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiv) Imitates his master by courting Bridget, maintains a blockade after Toby's retreat, and accidentally breaks the drawbridge while showing Bridget the fortifications. ### [Chapter XXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxv) Ordered to build a new drawbridge; his misfortune influences Toby's design choice. ### [Chapter XXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvi) Brings news of Dr. Slop's activity in the kitchen and delivers a response that deflates Walter's triumph. ### [Chapter XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvii) Trim, who explains the situation about the bridge and the nose injury. ### [Chapter XXXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxiv) Mentioned as faithful companion ambling with Uncle Toby around his pleasures. ### [Chapter XXXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxviii) Insists on being tried by court-martial after the cow incident. ### [Book IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/book-iv) Uncle Toby's loyal servant, who assists in Toby's military recreations. ### [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iii) Summoned by Uncle Toby ringing the bell at the bed's head. ### [Chapter IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iv) Grieves over the innocent grenadier and his brother Tom's misfortunes, and is moved by Uncle Toby's generosity. ### [Chapter VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vi) Leaves the room, allowing Walter to find himself disposed to rise. ### [Chapter XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xiii) Mentioned as boring the jackboots while the others napped. ### [Chapter XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xviii) Trim enters the parlour and discusses the naming accident, deflecting blame and engaging in a debate about the significance of Christian names. ### [Chapter XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xix) Recovers his arms after the attack; his chair had formed part of the 'breach' in the room. ### [Chapter XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxii) Mentioned in a disclaimer about not representing the duke of Ormond. ### [Chapter XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiii) Receives orders from Uncle Toby to hang his wig and regimentals by the fire. ### [Chapter XXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxv) Part of the cavalcade described in the torn-out chapter. ### [Chapter VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vi) Contrasted with Walter as a simple, heartfelt orator; he speaks his sentiments on the same subject. ### [Chapter VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vii) Delivers a moving sermon on mortality by dropping his hat, eliciting tears from the kitchen staff. ### [Chapter VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/viii) Pauses his harangue, then puts his hat on and continues his oration on death. ### [Chapter IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/ix) Delivers a sermon-like reflection on death and the brevity of life, addressing Jonathan and Susannah. ### [The Kitchen Conference on Death and Toby's Kindness](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/x) Leads the discussion on death, expresses his bravery in battle and his deep loyalty to Uncle Toby, weeping at the thought of leaving his fortune to him. ### [Chapter XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xviii) Hears Susannah's account and feels guilty as an accessory to the murder. ### [Chapter XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xix) Joyfully devises ways to supply Uncle Toby's campaigns, repurposing household items into cannons and carriage wheels. ### [Chapter XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xx) Takes responsibility for the accident and marches to the parlour to confess to Uncle Toby. ### [Chapter XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxi) Narrates Susannah's story and passionately defends his actions, recounting the battles of Steenkirk and Landen. ### [Chapter XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxii) Receives Toby's defense and directs a grateful bow towards his master. ### [Chapter XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiii) Follows a few paces behind, suggests putting Susannah in the rear, and wishes he had cut off the church spout. ### [Chapter XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxviii) Enters the parlour at Yorick's invitation to hear the battle description. ### [Chapter XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxix) Shakes his head at the display and later declares a bayonet thrust worth more than all the tricks. ### [The Tristra-paedia Reading](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxx) Bows, snuffs the candle, and comments on the 'Tomfool-battle'. ### [XXXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxi) Receives a nod from Walter to snuff the candle during the discourse. ### [Chapter XXXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxii) Recites the commandments like a military drill, insisting on starting from the first, and gives a practical interpretation of honouring parents. ### [Chapter XXXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxvii) Recalls the siege of Limerick and the sustaining effects of brandy, claret, cinnamon, and geneva. ### [Chapter XXXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxviii) Praised for maintaining the radical heat with hot wine and spices; asked by Yorick for his opinion on radical heat and moisture. ### [Chapter XXXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxix) Humming to begin his medical lecture when Dr. Slop enters; bows to Dr. Slop and then delivers his opinion on radical heat and moisture. ### [Chapter XL](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xl) Narrates the siege and draws a humorous conclusion about radical moisture and heat. ### [XLII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xlii) Mentions the Danish auxiliaries at the siege of Limerick, prompting Toby's misunderstanding. ### [Chapter XLIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xliii) Stands at the back of Walter's chair and replies that he has never seen a white bear, becoming the subject of Walter's hypothetical exercise. ### [Book VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/book-vi) Assists Uncle Toby in caring for Le Fever, displaying loyalty and empathy. ### [Chapter II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/ii) Receives the book from Walter with a nod to lay it upon the scrutoire. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/v) Present and sheds a tear of joy when Toby recommends Le Fever's son. ### [The Story of Le Fever](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vi-the-story-of-le-fever) Attends Toby at supper, is sent to reconnoitre the inn, and warns Toby against venturing out in the cold. ### [VII: The Story of Le Fever Continued](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vii-the-story-of-le-fever-continued) Returns from the inn and narrates the story of Lieutenant Le Fever and his son, showing compassion and defending the piety of soldiers. ### [VIII: The Story of Le Fever Continued](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/viii-the-story-of-le-fever-continued) Reports Le Fever's condition to Uncle Toby, argues that Le Fever will die despite Toby's hopes, and is praised for his nursing skills. ### [Chapter IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/ix) Ordered by Uncle Toby to go early in the morning for a physician. ### [X: The Story of Le Fever Continued](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/x-the-story-of-le-fever-continued) Mentioned as having helped Uncle Toby plan the offer of care for Le Fever. ### [Chapter XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xii) Receives Uncle Toby's old regimental coat and is dispatched to fetch young Le Fever from school at holidays. ### [Chapter XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xiii) Corporal Trim affirms Le Fever's son's bravery, stating that the best hearts are ever the bravest. ### [Chapter XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxi) Executes the physical work of constructing the fortifications under Uncle Toby's supervision. ### [Chapter XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxii) Executes the fortification works under Toby's direction, carrying a spade and fixing colors on the ramparts. ### [Chapter XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiii) Suggests building a model town and later devises a new system of battering to simulate firing. ### [Chapter XXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiv) Trim receives trinkets from his brother Tom and resolves to give away his Montero-cap if he fails to manage a matter to his honor's satisfaction. ### [Chapter XXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxv) Begins the attack without Uncle Toby; the subject of Tristram's affectionate and mournful tribute. ### [Chapter XXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvi) Devises and perfects a tobacco-smoke cannon system for the siege games. ### [Chapter XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvii) Sneaks out early to set up his apparatus and begins firing his cross batteries with great enthusiasm, lost in the pleasure of the puffs. ### [Chapter XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxviii) Corporal Trim hands the pipe to Uncle Toby and redoubles his attack, prompting Toby's reactions. ### [My Uncle Toby’s Apologetical Oration](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxii-my-uncle-toby-s-apologetical-oration) Mentioned as sharing in Toby's delight during the sieges on the bowling-green. ### [Chapter XXXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxiv) Eager to begin demolition; suggests making a breach in the ramparts, but defers to Uncle Toby's cautious strategy. ### [Chapter XXXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxv) Trim participates in consultations with Uncle Toby regarding the demolition of Dunkirk. ### [Book VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/book-vii) Referenced in connection with Uncle Toby, but not directly appearing in this book. ### [Chapter XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvii) Supports his master Uncle Toby, shares his disappointment, and is mentioned as part of the touring party. ### [Book VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/book-viii) Uncle Toby's loyal servant and confidant; assists in the courtship and provides comic relief. ### [Chapter VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/viii) Accompanies Uncle Toby and later constructs a bed for Toby's house, showing his many skills including upholstery. ### [Chapter IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/ix) He conducts Uncle Toby upstairs on the first night. ### [Chapter XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xiv) Corporal Trim facilitates Mrs. Wadman's access by making a wicker-gate for her walks. ### [Chapter XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xvi) Corporal Trim is referenced indirectly as the one who works on the fortifications during the campaign, setting the stage for the sentry-box and maps. ### [Chapter XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xviii) Reports the destruction and the burning of the stipulation, expresses disconsolation, and then pretends to work in order to approach and divert his master. ### [Chapter XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xix) Moralizes over his frayed cap, tells the story of the King of Bohemia, and argues about the pain of knee versus groin wounds. ### [Chapter XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xx) Narrates his story of being wounded and cared for by a young Beguine. ### [Chapter XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxi) Describes falling in love suddenly, likening it to a bomb bursting. ### [Chapter XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxii) Narrates his story of falling in love with the Beguine while recovering from his wound. ### [Chapter XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiii) His story of his amour sets the stage for Mrs. Wadman's approach; he has cleared the field of military stores. ### [Chapter XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvii) Addressed as a humble friend by Uncle Toby, who confides in him about being in love. ### [Chapter XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxviii) Advises Uncle Toby on courting Mrs. Wadman, proposes a military-style attack, and receives a crown to act as aid de camp. ### [Chapter XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxix) Trim offers to brush and chalk his master's sword, framing the task as a matter of honor. ### [The Siege of Widow Wadman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxx) Devises a battle plan to win over Mrs. Wadman and Bridget, showing his loyalty and strategic thinking. ### [Chapter XXXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxiv) Reports that Toby's scarlet breeches are too worn to be turned again, and wagers his Montero-cap that Widow Wadman cannot hold out ten days. ### [Chapter XXXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxv) Busy preparing everything for the attack alongside Uncle Toby. ### [Chapter II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/ii) Prepares Uncle Toby's wig and uniform, wears Le Fever's regimental coat, and marches behind his master with military pride. ### [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iii) Supports Uncle Toby with a respectful flourish of his stick and encourages him not to fear. ### [Chapter IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iv) Tells the story of his brother Tom's marriage to a Jewish widow and the subsequent imprisonment by the Inquisition. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/v) Tells the story of his brother Tom's courtship of a Jewish widow in Lisbon, and is moved to tears by Uncle Toby's kindness. ### [Chapter VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vi) Tells the story of Tom and shares his reflections on the negro girl's hardships, struggling to maintain his narrative voice. ### [Chapter VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vii) Narrates the story of Tom and the widow, and engages in a philosophical exchange with Uncle Toby about battles and marriages. ### [Chapter VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/viii) Comments on women and jokes, compares to artillery, marches behind Uncle Toby. ### [Chapter X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/x) Tells the long story of his brother Tom and the Jew's widow, with many flourishes and episodes. ### [Chapter XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xvi) Knocks at Mrs. Wadman's door after a moment's pause. ### [Chapter XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xx) Disapproves of the order but cheerfully obeys, going to fetch the map. ### [Chapter XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiii) Implied to be making love to Bridget as part of her scheme to uncover the secret of Toby's wound. ### [The Eighteenth Chapter](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/the-eighteenth-chapter) Raps at the door, announcing Toby's arrival. ### [Chapter XXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvi) Corporal Trim is sent to fetch the large map of Namur from the garret. ### [Chapter XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxviii) Points out the Maes and Sambre rivers on a map, describes the siege of Namur, and kisses Mrs. Bridget. ### [Chapter XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxix) Comforts Bridget with kisses and gentle persuasion, seeking to learn who has misled her. ### [Chapter XXX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxx) Gains advantages through Bridget but refrains from sharing details to protect Toby's modesty. ### [Chapter XXXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxi) Writes down the word 'humanity' and explains the difference between a knee wound and a groin wound. ### [Chapter XXXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxii) Walking with Uncle Toby to Walter's house. ### [List of Illustrations](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/list-of-illustrations) Referenced in the description of a squiggly line captioned as 'the corporal’s flourish'. ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/corporal_trim - Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se - All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters