A Hazard of New Fortunes · Question
How does A Hazard of New Fortunes develop the theme of Labor and Social Justice?
Answer
A Hazard of New Fortunes by William Dean Howells develops Labor and Social Justice across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The streetcar strike and Lindau's radicalism bring issues of labor rights and social inequality to the forefront, questioning the fairness of a system where workers are exploited and the poor are left vulnerable, culminating in tragic violence.
The chapter highlights the streetcar strike as a key plot device, and Howells expresses his hopes for 'truer and better conditions' for the poor, referencing the social reform movements of the era.
March's thoughts on Neapolitan workers 'worked and fed and housed like beasts' and the 'fierce struggle for survival' highlight the harsh conditions of immigrant labor.
Lindau's radical views on the injustice of wealth and his identification with the poor reflect themes of labor and social justice.
Evidence in the book
- Bibliographical
The chapter highlights the streetcar strike as a key plot device, and Howells expresses his hopes for 'truer and better conditions' for the poor, referencing the social reform movements of the era.
- Chapter XI
March's thoughts on Neapolitan workers 'worked and fed and housed like beasts' and the 'fierce struggle for survival' highlight the harsh conditions of immigrant labor.
- XII
Lindau's radical views on the injustice of wealth and his identification with the poor reflect themes of labor and social justice.
- III
Colonel Woodburn studies labor and poverty in the streets, and March feels a 'sense of complicity' with the city's striving and suffering.
- VI
Lindau and Colonel Woodburn debate the rights of workers versus the responsibilities of the wealthy, reflecting tensions over social justice.
- VII
Lindau's radicalism and Dryfoos's hostility highlight the clash between labor advocacy and capitalist authority.
- VIII
Lindau's stance and March's defense of his right to hold opinions underscore themes of worker dignity and social justice.
- IX
Lindau's dismissal over his radical views underscores the tension between labor advocacy and the interests of capital.
