Class and Social Mobility

The novel examines class distinctions through the governess's rise to Lady Culvers, the gossip about 'suitable' marriages, and the contrast between aristocratic idleness and the working-class characters like Goody and the Italian peasants.

Captain Culvers is portrayed as a man of showy accomplishments but low moral character, using marriage to gain access to Ida's fortune.

Skinner's lowly status and his attempt to profit from the family's secrets underscore the class divisions and the lengths to which the upper classes go to preserve their name.

Sefton's rejection of Violante due to her lower social standing highlights class barriers.