# Uncle Toby — The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman character guide > Uncle Toby in The Life and Opinions of Tristram Shandy, Gentleman by Laurence Sterne. **Role:** major **Also known as:** Toby, Mr. Toby Shandy, Toby Shandy, brother Toby, Tobias **First appearance:** 0004-book-i ## Snapshot A gentle, wounded soldier whose hobby-horse of fortifications and boundless compassion make him the moral center of the Shandy household. ## Who they are Uncle Toby is a retired officer whose groin wound at Namur ended his military career but not his obsession with siegecraft, which he recreates on bowling-greens and in gardens. He is modest to a fault, deeply loved by his brother despite their quarrels, and incapable of cruelty. His tenderness toward the unfortunate and his quiet resistance to his brother's systems make him the emotional anchor of the novel's first half. ## Relationships ### [Corporal Trim](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/corporal_trim) _friendship_ Trim is Toby's devoted former servant and closest companion, sharing his military hobby and gentle worldview. ### [Mrs. Shandy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/mrs_shandy) _family_ Mrs. Shandy is Toby's sister-in-law, and their interactions are marked by polite but distant domestic familiarity. ### [Mr. Yorick](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/mr_yorick) _friendship_ Yorick is a witty, good-natured parson and a close friend of Toby, sharing many conversations and mutual respect. ### [Dr. Slop](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/dr_slop) _social_ Dr. Slop is a bumbling, pedantic man-midwife who interacts with Toby mainly during Tristram's birth, with comic tension. ### [Le Fever](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/le_fever) _friendship_ Le Fever is a dying lieutenant whom Toby and Trim compassionately befriend and care for, embodying Toby's kindness. ### [Bridget](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/bridget) _social_ Bridget is Mrs. Wadman's maid and occasionally interacts with Toby in the context of his courtship with her mistress. ### [Obadiah](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/obadiah) _professional_ Obadiah is the Shandy family servant who occasionally assists or interacts with Uncle Toby in domestic matters. ### [Susannah](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/susannah) _professional_ Susannah, the Shandy maid, interacts with Toby in the household, often in the chaotic context of Tristram's birth. ### [Mrs. Wadman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/mrs_wadman) _romantic_ Mrs. Wadman is Toby's romantic interest, pursuing him with strategic affection while Toby remains innocently oblivious. ### [Dr. Slop](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/dr_slop) _social_ Dr. Slop is a bumbling, pedantic man-midwife who interacts with Toby mainly during Tristram's birth, with comic tension. ### [Mr. Yorick](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/mr_yorick) _friendship_ Yorick is a witty, good-natured parson and a close friend of Toby, sharing many conversations and mutual respect. ### [Corporal Trim](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/corporal_trim) _friendship_ Trim is Toby's devoted former servant and closest companion, sharing his military hobby and gentle worldview. ## 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) Tristram's uncle, a retired soldier with a gentle nature and a hobbyhorse of military fortifications. ### [Book I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/book-i) Tristram's uncle, whose hobbyhorse is military fortifications, stemming from his wound at Namur. ### [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iii) Tristram's uncle, to whom he is indebted for the anecdote; he understands Walter's reference to Tristram's misfortunes beginning before birth. ### [Chapter IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iv) Mentioned as the recipient of Walter's remarks about his monthly routine. ### [Chapter XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xv) Mentioned as the one who prompted the inclusion of the penalty clause in the marriage article. ### [Chapter XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xvi) Mentioned as the recipient of Mrs. Shandy's complaint about Walter's behavior. ### [Chapter XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xvii) Referenced indirectly through the marriage-settlement clause that empowers Walter. ### [Chapter XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xviii) Mentioned as being present to drink a bottle of wine with Walter and the operator in the back parlour. ### [Chapter XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxi) Extremely modest due to a groin wound at Namur; cannot bear hearing of Aunt Dinah's affair; whistles Lillabullero in response to Walter's arguments. ### [Chapter XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxii) Tristram mentions he was about to draw the great outlines of Uncle Toby's character before being led astray by the story of Aunt Dinah. ### [Chapter XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiii) Subject of Tristram's promised character sketch, to be drawn from his hobbyhorse. ### [Chapter XXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiv) The subject of the chapter; his character is to be revealed through his unique Hobbyhorse. ### [Chapter XXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxv) Suffers from a groin wound received at the Siege of Namur, confined to his room for four years, and is visited by friends who discuss his wound and the siege. ### [Book II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/book-ii) Tristram's uncle, consumed by his military hobbyhorse and the memory of his wound. ### [Chapter I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/i) Struggles to explain the siege of Namur and his wound; resolves to get a map of the fortifications. ### [Chapter II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/ii) Mentioned as a military man whose confusion in discourse is attributed to the unsteady uses of words, not to dull organs or faulty perception. ### [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iii) Devotes himself obsessively to studying military maps and siegecraft, neglecting his wound and health. ### [Chapter IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iv) Shows uncharacteristic impatience with his surgeon, demanding a speedy recovery after four years of patience. ### [Chapter V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/v) Fired by Trim's fortification project, he blushes with joy and hastily decides to move to his country house to build fortifications. ### [Chapter VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vi) Suggests modesty as the reason for Mrs. Shandy's preference, and his unfinished sentence becomes an example of aposiopesis. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vii) Expresses total ignorance about women, recalling his shock from the affair with widow Wadman, and fixates on a bad joint in the chimneypiece. ### [Chapter VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/viii) Mentioned as having rung the bell and as having been brought from Namur through Flanders into England over the course of the narrative. ### [Chapter X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/x) Discoursing with Walter; the sounds bring Stevinus the engineer to his mind. ### [Chapter XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xi) My uncle Toby, who also offers a crown to Obadiah. ### [Chapter XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xii) Defends his hobbyhorse of fortification, forgives Walter's insults, and shows his gentle, placid nature. ### [XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xiii) Defends his brother's actions as principled. ### [Chapter XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xiv) Orders Corporal Trim to fetch Stevinus's account and defends Peireskius's scholarly dedication. ### [Chapter XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xv) Nods to Trim to take the book back, expresses surprise at the sermon in his Stevinus, and vouches for Trim's reading ability. ### [Chapter XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xvii) Sympathizes with Trim and asks who wrote the sermon found in his Stevinus book. ### [Chapter XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xviii) Agrees that women are in the right; later wishes Dr. Slop had seen the armies in Flanders. ### [Chapter XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xix) My uncle Toby, a plain man of common sense, who is opposed by the coalition of Walter and Dr. Slop. ### [Chapter I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/i) Repeats his wish that Dr. Slop had seen the armies in Flanders. ### [Chapter II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/ii) Brother Toby, the interlocutor in the argument about armies in Flanders. ### [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iii) Reminded of the Siege of Namur by the zigzag motion; reaches for his map and compasses to measure the attack where he was wounded. ### [Chapter IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iv) Cited for his gentle treatment of a fly, serving as a model of forbearance. ### [Chapter V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/v) Observes Walter's agitation but interprets it kindly, blaming only the tailor who cut the pocket-hole, and sits with inexpressible goodwill. ### [Chapter VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vi) Listens to Walter's concerns and responds by whistling Lillabullero. ### [Chapter VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vii) Whistling Lillabullero to his father during the commotion. ### [Chapter IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/ix) Mentioned in the context of a prior dispute with Dr. Slop about midwifery. ### [Chapter X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/x) Suspends whistling to comment on curses, then whistles Lillabullero loudly during the reading. ### [Chapter XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xi) Whistles 'Lillabullero' during the reading and expresses his discomfort with the curse's bitterness. ### [Chapter XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xiii) Reflects on subordination, recalling the mutiny for bread at Ghent after the reduction of Lisle. ### [Chapter XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xv) Gains the upper hand in the argument after Dr. Slop's mishap. ### [Chapter XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xvi) Suffers skin and knuckle injuries from Dr. Slop's forceps during a demonstration. ### [Chapter XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xvii) Also present, receiving Dr. Slop's whispered explanation. ### [Chapter XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xviii) Responds to Walter's philosophical discourse with simple, concrete analogies (train of artillery, smoak-jack), deflating Walter's intellectual ambitions. ### [Chapter XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xix) In a fine disposition for discourse, but his head is likened to a smokey jack with obfuscated ideas. ### [Chapter XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xx) Falls asleep after his smoak-jack makes a dozen revolutions. ### [Chapter XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxii) Delighted with the mortars, offers to pay Walter ten pounds, and defends his military expenditures as being for the good of the nation. ### [Chapter XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiii) Mistakes Dr. Slop's bridge for a military bridge and thanks him. ### [Chapter XXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiv) Received a shock from his affair with Widow Wadman, resolved to avoid romance, but was drawn into a siege. Later, he is teased by Walter about the drawbridge accident and shows affectionate care for his brother. ### [Chapter XXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxv) Decides on a new drawbridge design after the old one is irreparable; considers Italian, hinged, draw, and cycloid bridges; discusses with Trim and Walter. ### [Chapter XXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvi) Mistakenly assumes Dr. Slop is making a model of the marquis d'Hôpital's bridge, showing his military preoccupation. ### [Chapter XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvii) Brother Toby, whom Walter asks to lead him to his room. ### [Chapter XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxix) Sits down in an old chair at the bed's head, draws the curtain forward, pulls out a cambrick handkerchief, gives a low sigh, and holds his peace, unable to time his consolation correctly. ### [The Nose-Breaking Distress](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxx) Sitting beside Walter in his old fringed chair. ### [Chapter XXXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxiv) Praised by Tristram for his gentle nature; his collection of military architecture books is paralleled to Walter's nose-book collection. ### [Chapter XXXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxvii) Brother Toby, who observes Walter's efforts and remarks that he has marred a word. ### [Chapter XXXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxviii) Sitting in his old fringed chair beside Walter, unaffected by the family turmoil. ### [Chapter XXXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxix) Patiently listens while smoking his pipe, but his mind, filled with military imagery, resists Walter's philosophical lectures. ### [Chapter XL](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xl) Listens attentively, using his pipe as a medius terminus, but fails to either discuss or weigh the arguments. ### [Chapter XLI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xli) Distracted during Walter's lecture, but snaps to attention at the word 'siege'; offers a simple theological explanation for nose length, then whistles Lillabullero. ### [Book IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/book-iv) Walter's brother, whose hobbyhorse of military fortifications provides counterpoint to Walter's theories. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/ii) Observes his brother's recovery with relief, rests his chin on his crutch, and his benign expression helps melt Walter's grief. ### [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iii) Sits in his old fringed chair with his chin on his crutch, misunderstands Walter's metaphor, and recalls a grenadier who was flogged. ### [Chapter IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iv) Expresses compassion for the grenadier and Trim's brother Tom, and promises Trim financial security. ### [Chapter VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vi) Mentioned as the one who first mentioned the grenadier; Walter stops short before him and addresses him. ### [Chapter VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vii) Interrupts Walter to note he was born to nothing but his commission; attributes human resilience to the grace of God. ### [Chapter VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/viii) Suggests religion as the secret spring within us and reacts to Walter's naming plan. ### [Chapter IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/ix) Accidentally strikes Walter's shin with his crutch and suggests the hip might have presented instead. ### [Chapter upon Chapters](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/x) Mentioned as being in a talking humour with Walter on the stairs. ### [Chapter XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xi) Interjects with 'In course' after Walter's praise of Trismegistus. ### [Chapter XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xii) Offers a sympathetic perspective on the burden of pregnancy, shaking his head in concert with Walter but from a different emotional spring. ### [Chapter XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xiii) Mentioned alongside Walter Shandy, also needing to be put to bed. ### [Chapter XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xiv) Mentioned as the godfather, after whom the child might have been named. ### [Chapter XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xvi) Listening to Walter's complaints and sending Obadiah to fetch Corporal Trim. ### [Chapter XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xviii) Uncle Toby expresses concern over the naming incident and defends his brother Walter's views on Christian names, while also reflecting on his own military service. ### [Chapter XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xix) Caught riding his hobbyhorse at a desperate rate, marching up the glacis during the attack. ### [My Father's Lamentation](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/my-father-s-lamentation) Sits under the chimneypiece, listens to Walter's lament, and offers mild corrections, suggesting they send for Mr. Yorick. ### [Chapter XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxii) Mentioned in the context of his character and wound. ### [Chapter XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiii) Agrees to accompany Walter and instructs Trim to prepare his regimentals. ### [Chapter XXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxv) Blushes when Walter mentions Aunt Dinah; suggests ignoring the bend-sinister. ### [Chapter XXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvi) Rises to speak about projectiles but is interrupted by a shocking word. ### [Chapter XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvii) Feels a pang of good-nature for Yorick, fearing Phutatorius's anger. ### [Chapter XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxix) Asks unexpected questions and whistles Lillabullero inwardly, showing his practical and simple nature. ### [The Staircase Settlement](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxx) Leaning upon Yorick and his father, he asks about the settlement of Tristram's affair. ### [Chapter XXXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxi) Walter daily communes with him about the Ox-moor dilemma. ### [Chapter XXXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxii) His campaigns and amours are the eagerly anticipated subject Tristram longs to write about. ### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/ii) Vibrates Obadiah's note back like a string in unison; hums over the letter and delivers the news of Bobby's death with a deep sigh. ### [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iii) Listens to Walter's harangue with silent concern, misinterprets a classical reference as a personal travel story, and prays silently for his brother. ### [Chapter IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iv) Brother Toby, who admits he has not read the story and questions its implications. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/v) Pronounces the word 'wife,' which is overheard by Mrs. Shandy. ### [The Kitchen Conference on Death and Toby's Kindness](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/x) Referenced as the subject of the servants' affection; Trim recalls Toby's silent grief over Le Fever and his promise to care for Le Fever's boy. ### [Chapter XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xii) His opinion about Cornelius Gallus is mentioned as the trigger for Mrs. Shandy's curiosity. ### [Chapter XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xiii) My uncle Toby is the audience for Walter's abstract of Socrates' oration. ### [Chapter XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xiv) Uncle Toby identifies the figures as Socrates's children and, after being corrected by Mrs. Shandy, leads her out to join my father. ### [XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xvi) Mentioned in comparison to Walter: Toby devoted himself to the doctrine of projectils, while Walter devotes himself to the Tristra-paedia. ### [Chapter XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xvii) His house is mentioned as a kinder sanctuary where Susannah flees. ### [Chapter XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xviii) Mentioned as potentially having bloodshed to answer for if the doctrine were true. ### [Chapter XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xix) Surveys his fortifications with Trim and requests two field-pieces for a new redoubt. ### [Chapter XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xx) Is in the parlour giving Yorick an account of the Battle of Steenkirk when Trim arrives. ### [Chapter XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxi) Defends Trim's obedience and engages in a lively reenactment of battle tactics. ### [Chapter XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxii) Compares Trim to Count Solmes and vows to destroy his own fortifications rather than see Trim disgraced. ### [Chapter XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiii) Leads the way abreast with Yorick, marching to Shandy Hall. ### [Chapter XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxviii) Confused by the learned discussion, asks about polemic divines, and requests to hear the battle description. ### [Chapter XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxix) Expresses disbelief that the described acrobatics could be fighting. ### [The Tristra-paedia Reading](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxx) Feels complacent after Trim's comment about the battle; lights his pipe. ### [XXXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxi) Interjects with a reason for the ox based on fortification, prompting Walter to change the emblem. ### [Chapter XXXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxii) Proudly asserts Trim's ability to recite the commandments and gives commands in a military tone. ### [Chapter XXXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxvii) Deeply absorbed in the chapter's discourse; consults Corporal Trim about the siege of Limerick and romanticizes the soldier's grave. ### [Chapter XXXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxviii) Narrates his experience with fever and the radical moisture in the camp, defending the corporal's methods. ### [Chapter XXXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxix) Asks Dr. Slop about the boy's condition in a manner that could not go unanswered; is no wiser after hearing the diagnosis and returns his pipe to his mouth. ### [Chapter XL](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xl) Describes the siege of Limerick and its wet conditions. ### [XLII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xlii) Interrupts to say he has given up on the subject, then misinterprets 'auxiliaries' as military allies. ### [Chapter XLIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xliii) Queries his brother Walter about how Trim can discourse on a white bear without having seen one, showing his literal-mindedness. ### [Book VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/book-vi) Shows deep compassion in the story of Le Fever, demonstrating his gentle nature. ### [Chapter II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/ii) Cries that the method would burst a child's head into a thousand splinters; mentions Piereskius and Stevinus; wryly comments on Lipsius's work. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/v) Listens to Walter's speech, interjects with his own thoughts, and recommends Le Fever's son as governor. ### [The Story of Le Fever](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vi-the-story-of-le-fever) Shows deep compassion for the sick stranger, sending wine and planning a visit despite his own frail health. ### [VII: The Story of Le Fever Continued](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vii-the-story-of-le-fever-continued) Listens to Trim's account with deep sympathy, blowing his nose and sighing; wishes he could help the young Le Fever. ### [VIII: The Story of Le Fever Continued](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/viii-the-story-of-le-fever-continued) Shows deep compassion, abandoning his siege of Dendermond to help Le Fever; insists on offering his purse and house, and declares Le Fever shall not die. ### [Chapter IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/ix) Goes to his bureau, puts his purse in his pocket, orders the corporal to fetch a physician, then goes to bed and falls asleep. ### [X: The Story of Le Fever Continued](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/x-the-story-of-le-fever-continued) Visits Le Fever, offers him a home and care, shows his compassionate nature. ### [Chapter XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xi) Attends the funeral of Le Fever as chief mourner, with young Le Fever in hand. ### [Chapter XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xii) Settles Le Fever's accounts, gives the coat to Trim, saves the sword for young Le Fever, educates him, and sends him off to war with a father's blessing. ### [Chapter XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xiii) Uncle Toby is preoccupied with Le Fever's expected arrival and eventually recommends Le Fever's son as a preceptor for Tristram. ### [Chapter XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xiv) Suggests a public rebuttal at the market cross, which Walter dismisses. ### [Chapter XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxi) Engages in his hobby of recreating sieges on his bowling-green, using plans of fortified towns and directing the corporal's work. ### [Chapter XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxii) Leads the siege operations with Trim, finding intense pleasure in the mimicry of Marlborough's campaigns. ### [Chapter XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiii) Proposes improvements to the model town and adds a church and cannon to his battlefield. ### [Chapter XXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiv) Uncle Toby prepares for the storm of the counterscarp with solemnity, but his preparations are delayed by wardrobe issues. ### [Chapter XXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxv) Observes Corporal Trim's attack from the corner of his yew hedge. ### [Chapter XXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvi) His field-pieces are used by Trim for the smoking project. ### [Chapter XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvii) Arrives ten minutes after Trim has started the mock attack, joining him in the midst of the action. ### [Chapter XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxviii) Uncle Toby is conflicted, repeatedly taking and returning the ivory pipe, then retreating into the sentry-box. ### [Chapter XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxix) Presented in a new character, with a singleness of heart and plainness of thinking that leaves him defenseless against women. ### [Chapter XXX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxx) Mentioned as one who never felt love until Fate ended his military preoccupations with the Peace of Utrecht. ### [Chapter XXXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxi) Deeply affected by the Treaty of Utrecht; cannot hear the name without sighing; delivers an apologetical oration defending his wish to continue the war. ### [My Uncle Toby’s Apologetical Oration](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxii-my-uncle-toby-s-apologetical-oration) Delivers an apologetical oration defending his wish for war and his passion for sieges, rooted in nature and honor. ### [Chapter XXXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxiv) Dismounts his hobbyhorse due to the peace of Utrecht; plans the demolition of Dunkirk with prudence. ### [Chapter XXXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxv) Uncle Toby experiences a waning of his military fantasies, replaced by softer, more delicate visions. ### [Chapter XXXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxvi) Subject of the promised memoirs of his courtship; victim of Walter's camphorated cerecloth trick. ### [XXXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxvii) Falls in love, as stated by the narrator. ### [Chapter XXXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxviii) Mentioned as the one who could not resist the imagined sweet and exquisite woman. ### [Chapter XXXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxix) Subject of the news that he is to marry Mrs. Wadman. ### [Chapter XL](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xl) His story is mentioned as part of Tristram's narrative plan. ### [Book VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/book-vii) Mentioned in Tristram's reflections, though not present in the travel narrative. ### [Chapter XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvii) Accompanies the party, expresses disappointment that St. Heribald was a monk, and suggests mounting the ramparts with Trim. ### [Chapter XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxviii) Walking across the marketplace of Auxerre with Tristram and Walter. ### [Chapter XL](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xl) Tristram wishes for his whistle in a moment of disappointment. ### [XLIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xliii) Referenced as the subject of the story Tristram is hastening to tell, 'my uncle Toby's amours'. ### [Book VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/book-viii) Central figure in the amours with Widow Wadman; his military hobbyhorse dominates his thoughts and actions. ### [Chapter I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/i) Mentioned as the subject of the narrator's intended work on his amours. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iv) Described as the worst fitted to soliloquize upon the mystic subject of love; forced to look into the affair due to Bridget and Susannah's communications. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vi) Subject of Widow Wadman's sudden affection; his leg is described as plump and muscular despite disuse. ### [Chapter VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/viii) Hurries with Corporal Trim to take possession of the spot of ground for their campaign, but forgets a bed and must stay at Mrs. Wadman's. ### [Chapter IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/ix) The object of Widow Wadman's affection; his presence upstairs prompts her three-night deliberation. ### [The Amours of My Uncle Toby with Mrs. Wadman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/x) His head was full of other matters until the demolition of Dunkirk; he then returns to Mrs. Wadman after an eleven-year armistice. ### [Chapter XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xi) Does not love Widow Wadman. ### [Chapter XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xiii) Listens to Walter's explanation about love and asks for clarification on hypallage. ### [Chapter XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xiv) Uncle Toby is the unwitting object of Mrs. Wadman's romantic advances, living in the house adjacent to hers. ### [Chapter XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xv) Interrupts Dr. Slop to ask about the location of the blind gut during a discourse with Walter Shandy. ### [Chapter XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xvi) Uncle Toby is the object of Mrs. Wadman's amorous siege, his military habits and simple nature exploited as she uses his maps and sentry-box to initiate physical contact. ### [Chapter XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xvii) Target of Mrs. Wadman's attacks; the opposite margin of the plan is clean, attributed to him. ### [Chapter XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xviii) Reacts with a suppressed sigh to the news of the fortifications' destruction and the burning of the stipulation, then states there is no further occasion for their services. ### [Chapter XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xix) Comforts Trim about the worn cap, objects to the date 1712 in Trim's story, debates wound pain, and delivers a discourse on geography. ### [Chapter XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xx) Listens to Trim's story, expresses sympathy, and identifies the young woman as a Beguine. ### [Chapter XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxi) Muses on Trim's comparison of love to war and asks for details of the event. ### [Chapter XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxii) Listens to Trim's story and interjects with comments about the romantic encounter. ### [Chapter XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiii) The object of Mrs. Wadman's romantic attack, sitting in his sentry-box with the Plan of Dunkirk. ### [Chapter XXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiv) Innocently peers into Mrs. Wadman's eye, unaware of her amorous stratagem. ### [Chapter XXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxv) Uncle Toby is the subject of Mrs. Wadman's gaze; he protests he can see nothing in her eye, but the narrator describes how her eye robs him of his repose. ### [Chapter XXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvi) Depicted as taking love like a lamb, sitting pensive and silent, mistaking a saddle sore for love's wound. ### [Chapter XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvii) Declares his love for widow Wadman to Corporal Trim, showing his innocence and lack of worldly shame. ### [Chapter XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxviii) Discusses his love for Mrs. Wadman with Corporal Trim, pointing to a 'ball' in his breast, and agrees to a plan of attack. ### [The Siege of Widow Wadman](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxx) Expresses reluctance and preference for military engagement over romantic pursuit. ### [Chapter XXXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxi) Mentioned as being provoked by Walter's perverse use of the expression during Toby's time in love; his hobbyhorse is cited as an example of a harmless diversion ('an uncle Toby's siege'). ### [Chapter XXXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxii) Misinterprets Walter's question literally, replies about his blister, and later confirms he is in love, dating it to when the blister broke. ### [Chapter XXXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxiii) Responds pragmatically that love's purpose is marriage and children, and refuses to beget a child against his will. ### [Chapter XXXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxiv) The recipient of Walter's letter; preparing for his attack on Widow Wadman, concerned about his breeches. ### [Chapter XXXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxv) Preparing for the attack with Corporal Trim, accoutred and ready to sally forth. ### [A Dedication to a Great Man](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/a-dedication-to-a-great-man) Referenced as the subject of 'The Amours of My Uncle Toby' ### [Chapter I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/i) His amours are the subject the narrator is finally approaching. ### [Chapter II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/ii) His gentle nature and gentlemanly countenance make his worn and ill-fitting uniform appear dignified. ### [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iii) Turns his head to check on Corporal Trim's support, feels fear and unease around women, and confesses his discomfort to his father. ### [Chapter IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/iv) Halts before Mrs. Wadman's door, musing on her possible reaction and later on liberty. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/v) Listens sympathetically to Trim's story, compares Tom to Trim, and is emotionally affected. ### [Chapter VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vi) Engages in a compassionate dialogue with Corporal Trim about mercy and the soul of a negro girl. ### [Chapter VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/vii) Interrupts Trim's story to comment on Count De la Motte's tactical error at the Battle of Wynendale. ### [Chapter VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/viii) Responds to Trim, expresses love for mankind and the peaceful purpose of military knowledge, marches down the avenue. ### [Chapter X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/x) Approaches Mrs. Wadman's door with Corporal Trim, then unexpectedly marches away. ### [Chapter XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xi) Referenced as one of the two noddles making fortifications, presumably on Mrs. Wadman's premises. ### [XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xv) Mentioned as the subject to which the narrator resolves to return. ### [Chapter XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xvi) Hesitates and wishes for another conference before Trim knocks. ### [Chapter XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xvii) Uncle Toby is whistling Lillabullero, interrupting the narrator's philosophical reflections. ### [Chapter XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xx) Rises from the sofa and orders Trim to fetch the map from the garret. ### [Chapter XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxii) Praised for his gentle, generous, and humane nature, and his fitness for marriage. ### [Chapter XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxiii) Sits naively on the sofa with Mrs. Wadman, playing his trumps with plainness and simplicity, unaware of her designs. ### [The Invocation](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/the-invocation) Mentioned in passing as Tristram thinks of his amours while traveling. ### [The Eighteenth Chapter](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/the-eighteenth-chapter) Declares his love to Mrs. Wadman with awkward brevity, then remains silent, leaving her to guide the conversation. ### [Chapter the Nineteenth](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/chapter-the-nineteenth) Blushes at Mrs. Wadman's use of 'fiddlestick' and offers to share the pains and pleasures of matrimony, then retreats into reading the siege of Jericho. ### [Chapter XXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvi) Uncle Toby, caught up in the memory of the siege, misunderstands Mrs. Wadman's intent and points to a spot on his map of Namur. ### [Chapter XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxvii) His map is carried down into the kitchen, showing his continued focus on military matters. ### [Chapter XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxviii) Referenced as the one who received the wound at the siege of Namur. ### [Chapter XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxix) Mentioned as the master whose honor is at stake in the conversation. ### [Chapter XXX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxx) Presents himself in red and silver, and blue and gold, enduring attacks without awareness. ### [Chapter XXXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxi) Counts Mrs. Wadman's perfections and dictates her virtues to Trim, focusing on her compassion. ### [Chapter XXXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxii) Walking to Walter's house; enters with benevolence and forgiveness as Walter rails against lust. ### [Chapter XXXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/chapters/xxxiii) Listens to Walter's discourse and lays down his pipe to intercede for a better epithet for cannon. ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters/uncle_toby - Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se - All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/tristram_shandy_se/characters