Before the Curtain
Described as the Dobbin Figure, apparently clumsy but dancing in a very amusing and natural manner.
Dobbin of Ours
Introduced as a clumsy, mocked schoolboy who rises in status after a fight with Cuff; now a devoted captain in the army, still deeply attached to George Osborne.
Vauxhall
Carries Amelia's shawl at Vauxhall, pays for the party, and watches over Amelia's happiness with fatherly pleasure.
XII: Quite a Sentimental Chapter
Visits Amelia under the pretense of seeing George, but shows awkwardness and blushes when teased; his concern for Amelia's sadness hints at his deeper feelings.
XIII: Sentimental and Otherwise
Indiscreetly reveals George's engagement to Amelia in the mess-room, causing George's anger.
How Captain Dobbin Bought a Piano
Mentioned as having vanished from the auction before Rawdon and Becky could speak with him; the chapter title refers to his purchase of the piano.
Who Played on the Piano Captain Dobbin Bought
Defends Amelia fiercely against his sisters' gossip, secretly loves her, and arranges for the piano and a meeting; he reports to George that Amelia is 'dying' of grief.
In Which Captain Dobbin Acts as the Messenger of Hymen
Acts as the primary negotiator and promoter of George and Amelia's marriage, visiting both Mr. and Mrs. Sedley to secure their consent.
A Quarrel About an Heiress
George's friend and confidant, who advises him to remain true to Amelia despite family pressure.
A Marriage and Part of a Honeymoon
Supports George through the wedding; feels lonely and miserable afterward, longing to see Amelia again.
Captain Dobbin Proceeds on His Canvass
Acts as George's plenipotentiary, using diplomacy and eloquence to win over the Osborne sisters to the marriage.
In Which Mr. Osborne Takes Down the Family Bible
Acts as George's ambassador, nervously confessing the marriage to Mr. Osborne and feeling guilty for his role in the match.
In Which All the Principal Personages Think Fit to Leave Brighton
Attempts to downplay danger but secretly worries for Amelia; feels conflicted about her departure.
Between London and Chatham
Attends the dinner, remonstrates about the extravagance, escorts Amelia to her coach, and returns to his quarters at the Slaughters'.
In Which Amelia Joins Her Regiment
Paces the street awaiting Amelia's arrival, helps her from the carriage, and later lingers outside the inn smoking after the party.
In Which Amelia Invades the Low Countries
Assists with travel arrangements; laughs at Mrs. O'Dowd's boasts; angered by the Bareacres' rudeness.
Brussels
Accompanies the Osbornes, observes George's folly, tries to comfort Amelia at the ball, and is increasingly distant from George.
The Girl I Left Behind Me
Visits Jos to say goodbye but is distracted, listening and looking for Amelia.
In Which Jos Sedley Takes Care of His Sister
Mentioned as having interrupted Jos earlier; his departure with the army is implied.
In Which Jos Takes Flight, and the War Is Brought to a Close
Praised for his modesty, kindness, and coolness in battle, Dobbin carries the wounded Stubble to safety and ensures Amelia knows George is unharmed.
Widow and Mother
Dobbin remains a constant, gentle presence in Amelia's life, serving as Georgy's godfather and quietly bearing his unrequited love for her.
A Family in a Very Small Way
From Madras, secretly pays off George's debts and supports Amelia and Georgy with gifts and money, while hiding his own generosity.
XLII: Which Treats of the Osborne Family
The Major in India, godfather to Georgy, whose sisters encourage Amelia and hope to reconcile Mr. Osborne with his grandson; Amelia writes to him congratulating him on his marriage.
In Which the Reader Has to Double the Cape
Now Major Dobbin, second in command, still devoted to Amelia and indifferent to Glorvina's charms; deeply affected by Amelia's letter giving him her blessing for a supposed marriage.
Struggles and Trials
The good Major who sends gifts to Amelia, including an India shawl and a bay horse. His sisters urge Amelia to let Georgy visit his grandfather.
Contains a Vulgar Incident
Mentioned as Amelia's former friend and guardian of Georgy, from whom she has not sought help.
Georgy Is Made a Gentleman
Visits Georgy at school, deeply moved by the boy's resemblance to his late father George Osborne.
Eothen
Recovers from illness on the ship Ramchunder, learns Amelia is not married, and returns to England with Joseph Sedley, determined to help her.
LVIII: Our Friend the Major
Returns from India, reunites with Amelia in Kensington Gardens, deeply in love and observant of her domestic happiness.
The Old Piano
Arranges for Joseph's return and lodgings, continues to care for Amelia and her family, and is revealed to be in love with Amelia.
Returns to the Genteel World
The ami de la maison, friend to old Sedley, Emmy, Georgy, and Jos's counsel; he is generous, simple, and devoted to Amelia, and forms a close bond with Georgy.
In Which Two Lights Are Put Out
Attends the funeral and is increasingly recognized for his merit and reputation.
LXII: Am Rhein
Accompanies Amelia and Georgy on their tour; noted for his honest, pure heart and warm humility, despite his awkward appearance.
In Which We Meet an Old Acquaintance
Acts as George's tutor, reads Caesar and mathematics with him, and walks a Polonaise with Emmy at the court ball.
Full of Business and Pleasure
Remains suspicious of Becky, warns Jos and Amelia, but ultimately accompanies Amelia to visit her.
Amantium Irae
Warns Jos against Becky, overhears students discussing Becky's gambling, and is rebuffed by Amelia for his interference.
LXVII: Which Contains Births, Marriages, and Deaths
Refuses his share of Joseph's legacy and declines communication with Rebecca; is deeply admired by Amelia and Georgy.
