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Book 1, Chapter 12
Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Joseph Andrews, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Hypocrisy
Lust vs. Chastity
Social Class
Religion and Charity
Summary
Analysis
A surgeon comes to see Joseph Andrews. Joseph tells him about the robbery and asks if his health is in danger. The surgeon says that while he hopes Joseph will recover, Joseph should get his affairs in order. Joseph wants to write a letter to Fanny, but no one allows him to have paper or a pen.
The surgeon doesn’t seem to put much effort into treating Joseph because of Joseph’s lower class, which is why he gives such a grim prognosis. It would be most convenient for everyone else if Joseph simply died as quickly as possible.
Themes
Mr. Barnabas, a clergyman, comes to see Joseph Andrews. But he’s reluctant to see Joseph and prefers to talk with Mrs. Tow-wouse over tea first. Mr. Barnabas gives Joseph a chance to repent for his sins. Joseph says he’s not sure if it’s a sin, but his main regret is to be apart from Fanny. Barnabas assures him it is in fact a sin.
Mr. Barnabas is one of many clergymen in the story who doesn’t live up to the high ideals that someone in his profession should supposedly represent. He is quick to judge other for their sins, even as he seems reluctant to do his own job.
Themes
Joseph Andrews runs out of sins to confess. He asks Mr. Barnabas if he may have some tea. Barnabas asks Mrs. Tow-wouse, who says she’s already finished tea and can’t spend all day making it. At last, Betty makes Joseph some tea herself.
Mr. Barnabas seems much more intent on enjoying whatever hospitality he can get out of his visit rather than spending time with Joseph. Once again, the poor servant Betty proves more generous than the richer characters around her.
Themes
