The Expedition of Humphry Clinker

The novel’s plot and structure revolve around a series of travels. How does travel allow the novel to achieve goals such as satire, comedy, and social critique? How is the experience of the characters similar to, and different from, modern experiences of travel and tourism?

Tabitha Bramble is continuously mocked for her attempts to find a husband. Why is Tabitha presented as a ridiculous and unpleasant character? How are her efforts to secure a husband contrasted with the experiences of Lydia and Winifred? What is the significance of Tabitha achieving her goal and getting married at the end of the novel?

Jeremy and Matthew provide most of the narration in the novel. How are the two men similar, and how are they different? How does the relationship between them change and evolve over the course of the novel? Does Jeremy influence the perspective and tastes of the older man in a significant way?

While Matthew is dissatisfied with most of the places he visits, he loves Scotland and praises it highly. What features of Scottish culture and geography do Matthew and other characters praise, and what does this reveal about their characters and the book’s themes? In the context of 18th century history, why is the choice to celebrate Scotland significant?

While Humphry never writes a letter or contributes directly to the narrative, he is mentioned in the title. Can he be considered the protagonist of the novel? How is Humphry distinctive and different from the other characters, who do actively contribute to the narrative?

The subplot about Mr. Baynard and his unhappy marriage is a significant plot point in the novel’s final section. Why is Matthew so disturbed by Baynard’s fate, and why is so eager to intervene and help? How do Baynard’s problems reflect themes that are satirized and critiqued throughout the novel, including the perils of vanity, and fears of female agency?

The revelation that Humphry is actually Matthew’s biological son is a surprising and improbable plot point. How is this surprising discovery foreshadowed at earlier moments in the text? Why is Matthew so nonchalant and seemingly unmoved by this discovery? Did this information change your perception and understanding of his character?

When Wilson’s true identity as George Dennison is revealed, attitudes toward him change completely. Why is Jeremy able to accept and embrace Wilson once he knows his true identity and social position? What does this change of status reveal about social class and prejudice in the novel? How does the revelation of Wilson’s true identity parallel that of Humphry’s true identity as Matthew’s son?