Drinking

Drinking is a major recurring theme throughout the novel. It is often used as a means of reconciliation. It is especially commonly used to restore peace after a dispute between a group of men. When Dr. Slammer angers Mr. Pickwick in Rochester, Mr. Pickwick is soothed by the consumption of alcohol. After their coach trouble on the way to Manor Farm, the Pickwickians are provided with brandy which restores their spirits. When the All-Muggleton team beats the Dingley Dell team at cricket, both teams drink together and become friendly. The Pickwickians search for Tupman after he leaves a suicide note over Rachael's elopement with Jingle; when they find him, they drink and are reconciled. Sam Weller offers to buy Job Trotter a drink in Fleet Prison as a means of reconciliation. Ben Allen and Bob Sawyer are angry about Arabella's elopement with Winkle until liquor subdues their anger...