In the traditional society of Barsetshire Dr Grantly who has hoped to succed his father as bishop must suffer the indignity of seeing the post go to the 'Low Church' Dr Proudie at the instigation of the new Whig government. When Mr Quiverful is made Warden of Hiram's Hospital contrary to Slope and Grantly's wishes the battle for social supremacy becomes increasingly heted until it reaches a scandalous conclusion.