Mr. Bumble

Definition

Mr. Bumble is a character from Charles Dickens' novel 'Oliver Twist', serving as the beadle of the workhouse where Oliver is raised. He embodies the hypocrisy and corruption prevalent in the social systems of the time, representing the failure of authority figures to act in the best interest of the vulnerable, particularly orphans and the poor.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mr. Bumble is portrayed as pompous and self-important, often misusing his authority to further his own interests rather than genuinely caring for those in his charge.
2. His interactions with Oliver highlight the theme of cruelty within institutions designed to help the poor, making him a symbol of oppressive bureaucracy.
3. Dickens uses Mr. Bumble's character to critique the Victorian workhouse system, illustrating how it dehumanizes its inhabitants rather than providing support.
4. Mr. Bumble's eventual downfall occurs when he marries Mrs. Corney, only to find himself subjected to her dominance, showcasing a reversal of power dynamics.
5. The character serves as an example of how societal structures can corrupt individuals and lead them to neglect their moral responsibilities.

Review Questions

• How does Mr. Bumble represent the themes of authority and corruption in 'Oliver Twist'?
  • Mr. Bumble exemplifies the themes of authority and corruption through his role as a beadle in the workhouse. His character illustrates how individuals in positions of power can exploit their authority for personal gain, neglecting their moral duties towards those they oversee. This reflects Dickens' critique of institutional failures in caring for vulnerable populations like orphans and the poor.
• Discuss the significance of Mr. Bumble's relationship with Oliver and how it highlights the social issues depicted in 'Oliver Twist'.
  • Mr. Bumble's relationship with Oliver underscores the harsh realities faced by orphaned children in Victorian England. His callous treatment of Oliver not only reveals Bumble's lack of empathy but also serves as a critique of the broader social systems that failed to protect vulnerable youth. The dynamics between them reflect Dickens' commentary on the failures of societal institutions, emphasizing how authority figures often prioritize self-interest over compassion.
• Analyze how Mr. Bumble's character arc contributes to Dickens' overall critique of social institutions in 'Oliver Twist'.
  • Mr. Bumble's character arc illustrates Dickens' critique of social institutions by showcasing his rise and eventual fall within the workhouse system. Initially portrayed as a figure of authority, his arrogance leads to his downfall when he becomes subject to Mrs. Corney’s influence after their marriage. This shift not only highlights the absurdity of social hierarchies but also emphasizes how power can corrupt those within it, ultimately reinforcing Dickens’ message about the need for reform in institutions meant to serve society's most vulnerable members.

Related terms

Beadle: A minor church official or assistant to a parish officer, often tasked with maintaining order and managing administrative duties within the workhouse system.

Workhouse: An institution where the poor were provided shelter and work, often under harsh conditions, reflecting the social attitudes towards poverty in Victorian England.

Social Critique: A literary approach used by Dickens to highlight and criticize societal issues, particularly those related to class disparity, child welfare, and institutional corruption.