Social Class Literature Review Sample

Charles Dickens is well known for his thematic books, especially David Copperfield and Oliver Twist, both of which revolve around the concept of ‘social class’ that existed in England in the early nineteenth century. Dickens uses the tragic experiences of his characters to evoke empathy from his readers. David Copperfield, in particular, reflects the plight of the people who belong to ‘lower social classes’. Throughout the story, it is seen that people who are economically well-off have the upper hand in society. Further, ‘It is right for the rich to suppress and reign over the poor’ is shown to be the general mindset of the people.
Dickens establishes the fact that power is directly related to money and class. The weak are shown to be helpless in most situations, and instead of standing up to someone powerful, they are forced to take sides with someone else equally powerful, in order to survive. For instance, after the death of his mother, David is unable to leave the clutches of Mr.Murdstone, his stepfather until he seeks the shelter of his rich aunt Betsey Trotwood. The atrocities committed in the name of labor also highlight the superiority of the wealthy. Social class is seen to be a direct consequence of wealth – young orphans with no money are treated like slaves by Mr.Creakle, where they are used as cheap labor in his factory.
In a story not very unlike David Copperfield in its portrayal of social class, Charlotte Bronte has written the story of Jane Eyre, narrated in first person. Jane Eyre faces similar problems in childhood, where she is ill treated by her aunt and cousins. Her childhood is filled with emotional trauma resulting from physical and psychological abuse from them. Jane Eyre, through no fault of hers, is refused the love and care she years for as an orphan. The book proceeds to show the challenges she faces in later stages. Bronte connects to readers using Jane Eyre’s strong character as a woman.
The most significant portrayal of social class is established in the relationship between Jane Eyre and Edward Rochester. Though they fall madly in love with each other, class stands as a hindrance to their union. The dilemma faced by Jane Eyre when Rochester proposes to her is the highlight of the book. She is torn between two emotions – one of love for Rochester, and the other for her own independence. She is prudent enough to predict that she would lose her freedom and spirit if she marries Rochester. She knows that she is not his social equal, and though he loves her, he will always be condescending and will want to hold the upper hand.
In a very similar storyline in David Copperfield, Charles Dickens beautifully describes two contrasting marriages: first of Mr.Murdstone and David’s mother; and second of the Strongs. While in the former, Mr.Murdstone tries to establish his superiority over his wife in the name of helping her grow, it is seen that he ends up belittling her and lowering her self-esteem. The latter relationship is an example of equality of the partners, and shows how positive enforcement of ideas genuinely helps in mutual development. Though these are not directly related to social class as a consequence of wealth, they portray the existence of social class as a consequence of emotional dependence.
Jane Eyre and David Copperfield both proceed to show that love ultimately triumphs over wealth and class. Jane Eyre unites with her lover Rochester in spite of his physical disabilities, making him realize the power of love; David finds his soul mate in the form of Agnes, even though he is an orphan who was constantly looked down upon by many throughout his childhood. In both stories, characters more or less meet the ends they deserve.