Cakes and Ale · Question
How does Cakes and Ale develop the theme of Social Class and Snobbery?
Answer
Cakes and Ale by W. Somerset Maugham develops Social Class and Snobbery across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The novel satirizes the rigid English class system, from the provincial snobbery of Blackstable to the literary and aristocratic circles of London, showing how characters like Rosie and Driffield are judged and marginalized for their origins, while others use rank to advance.
The narrator's aunt refuses to call on a rich banker because he is 'in trade', and the narrator himself dismisses Driffield as a 'cad' based on his clothing. These illustrate the rigid social codes of the time.
The narrator's discomfort with the Driffields' openness about their working-class past highlights the rigid class distinctions of the time.
The Driffields are considered 'common' by Blackstable society, and the narrator's uncle and curate look down on them despite their literary merits.
Evidence in the book
- III
The narrator's aunt refuses to call on a rich banker because he is 'in trade', and the narrator himself dismisses Driffield as a 'cad' based on his clothing. These illustrate the rigid social codes of the time.
- VII
The narrator's discomfort with the Driffields' openness about their working-class past highlights the rigid class distinctions of the time.
- Chapter VIII
The Driffields are considered 'common' by Blackstable society, and the narrator's uncle and curate look down on them despite their literary merits.
- IX
The narrator's initial coldness toward Lord George due to social differences, but he grows to like him despite his vulgarity.
- The Flight of the Driffields
The narrator's uncle and aunt view the Driffields as 'adventurers' and 'improper associates,' highlighting class prejudices and the importance of social standing.
- Chapter XIII
The narrator's initial embarrassment about the Driffields' unpaid bills and his observation of their 'decayed respectability' highlight class sensitivities.
- XIV
Mrs. Barton Trafford's condescension towards Rosie, and the narrator's satirical take on the nobility's involvement in literature.
- Chapter XVII
The narrator's disdain for Jack Kuyper's vulgarity and wealth highlights class-based snobbery, as he feels threatened by Kuyper's material display.
