1、 Introduction

After the Union Act, Scotland faced a national identity crisis, and Scots went south to England to seek opportunities and participate in colonial wars. The 18th century British novelist Tobias Smollett reflected on the ethnic discrimination and friction between Scotland and England. His work "The Adventures of Humphrey Crick" depicts a family of five traveling through England and Scotland in the form of letters, exploring social issues in England. The novel exposes the corruption of England, places high hopes on Scotland, showcases the charming charm and intellectual elite of Scotland, and forms a sharp contrast with England.

2、 Wilkes and Gruhn's disease

This article delves into the reflection and criticism of Scottish national identity in Smollett's "The Adventures of Humphry Crick" in the political and social context of 1860s England. The book depicts the social conflicts that arose after the merger of England and Scotland, showcasing the English people's suspicion and hatred towards the Scots at that time. In particular, a detailed description was given of the opposition of Tory leaders to the Scottish merger, as well as the discontent of Scots towards England. At the same time, the chapter also analyzes the process of the Scots gradually integrating into British society after the Battle of Croydon, as well as the attacks and anti Soviet sentiment caused by Londoner John Wilkes towards the Scots. In addition, it also discussed Smollett's examination of the anti Soviet community in England in his novel, as well as his profound reflections on Scottish national identity. Through these contents, the chapter reveals the important position and influence of "The Adventures of Humphry Crick" in the construction of Scottish national identity.

3、 A staunch supporter of George III and the Bute government

Smollett expressed dissatisfaction with the rule of the Hanoverian dynasty for the first forty years in his book "A General History of England", believing that there was moral decadence in the social atmosphere and officialdom during the reigns of George I and George II. He criticized George I for being manipulated by the Whigs and the Constitution of George II for being trampled upon by Walpole policies. Smollett praised George III, considering him the most amiable monarch in British history. He supported the Bute government, exposed social issues, and criticized the Wilkes faction by editing 'The Britons' and the novel' Clinker '. Smollett condemned the divisive behavior of Old Pitt and the Wilkes faction, mocked the Duke of Newcastle, and praised Lord Bute. Klink reflects Smollett's stance and attitude towards the political struggles of the time through a fictional art form.

4、 The Ideal Scotland

In the 18th century, the English held prejudice against the Scots, believing that they were cunning and only concerned with their own interests. In Smollett's "The Adventures of Humphry Crick," the experiences of Brown Burrell and his team showcase the ignorance and prejudice of the English towards Scotland. Bromble's sister Tabitha doesn't even know the geographical relationship between Scotland and England. However, Smollett expressed his admiration for Scotland and corrected the erroneous prejudices of the English through the characters and plot in the novel, promoting mutual respect and understanding between the two ethnic groups.

5、 Conclusion

Brambel and his team learned through their journey to Scotland to understand different civilizations with an open mind and to reject prejudice. Smollett provided readers with an opportunity to learn about the Britons through the forms of letters and travelogues. Clinker has practical significance during a period of tense relations between England and Scotland, showcasing the author's understanding of common human emotions and efforts to unify British national identity. In the current post Brexit era in the UK, the call for Scottish independence is on the rise, and Smollett's works provide inspiration for the UK to reflect on the Scottish issue.