The narrative follows the turbulent life of the arrogant and impulsive Peregrine Pickle as he navigates the social hierarchies of 18th-century Europe. Driven by a relentless desire for status and amusement, Peregrine engages in elaborate pranks, romantic pursuits, and frequent confrontations with those he deems inferior. His path is obstructed by his own volatile temperament and the rigid, often hypocritical, expectations of the aristocracy. The story unfolds through a third-person perspective that maintains a satirical distance, documenting the protagonist's rise and fall across various international settings.

Readers and critics often note that the novel serves as a sharp, unvarnished look at the social landscape of the mid-18th century. Discussion frequently centers on the protagonist's lack of moral growth, which challenges traditional expectations for a central character. Many observers highlight the author's skill in crafting vivid, albeit often grotesque, supporting figures who populate the various episodes. The pacing is recognized as brisk and chaotic, reflecting the unpredictable nature of the protagonist's own choices. Ultimately, the work is viewed as a significant example of the picaresque form that prioritizes social critique over internal character development.