The arrival of the enigmatic Humphry Clinker into the traveling party of Squire Bramble serves as the catalyst for a series of comedic misunderstandings and social observations across 18th-century Britain. The narrative follows the members of the Bramble household as they traverse the country, with each character documenting their experiences through personal letters. This epistolary framework allows the author to contrast the subjective perceptions of the travelers against the objective reality of their surroundings. The protagonist and his companions must navigate various social entanglements, including failed romances and legal troubles, while maintaining their distinct, often conflicting, viewpoints.

Readers and critics frequently highlight the effectiveness of the epistolary format in showcasing the distinct, often cantankerous voices of the Bramble household. Discussion often centers on the balance between Smollett's sharp, satirical wit and the physical comedy inherent in the characters' various misadventures. Many observers note that the novel serves as a vivid portrait of 18th-century life, particularly regarding the medical and social trends of the era. The work is often praised for its ability to maintain a humorous tone while providing a complex examination of how individual perspective shapes the interpretation of events. Readers interested in the evolution of the English novel often find this text to be a significant example of the picaresque tradition.