The narrative follows the naive Mr. Verdant Green as he navigates the complex social and academic hierarchies of Oxford University. Upon his arrival at the university, Verdant Green encounters a series of eccentric students and faculty members who subject him to various pranks and initiation rituals. The protagonist must learn to adapt to the rigid expectations of collegiate life while attempting to maintain his dignity amidst constant ridicule. The story utilizes a third-person perspective to document the protagonist's gradual transformation from a sheltered youth into a seasoned university student.

Readers often identify this work as a significant piece of Victorian satire that captures the specific atmosphere of mid-19th-century Oxford. Discussion frequently centers on the author's ability to balance lighthearted humor with a critique of the university's exclusionary social practices. Critics highlight the episodic nature of the plot, which serves to showcase a wide array of character types rather than focusing on a singular dramatic arc. Many readers appreciate the historical value of the text as a window into the traditions and daily life of students during that era. The work remains a point of interest for those studying the evolution of the campus novel genre.