# How does Calvary develop the theme of Class and Materialism?

> Calvary by Octave Mirbeau

## Answer

Calvary by Octave Mirbeau develops Class and Materialism across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.

The narrative critiques bourgeois values through the protagonist's family background, Juliette's obsession with luxury and status, and the hollow pursuit of wealth and social position.

The peasant's concern for saving his pigs and poultry contrasts with the larger military conflict, highlighting the impact of war on ordinary people.

The superficiality of Juliette's social circle, focused on gossip, travel, and entertainment, contrasts with the narrator's romantic ideals.

The lavish apartment and its furnishings symbolize material excess and social aspiration. The narrator's discomfort with the opulence and his regret over the move highlight tensions between love and material concerns.

## Evidence

- [ii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/calvary_se/chapters/ii.md): The peasant's concern for saving his pigs and poultry contrasts with the larger military conflict, highlighting the impact of war on ordinary people.
- [iv](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/calvary_se/chapters/iv.md): The superficiality of Juliette's social circle, focused on gossip, travel, and entertainment, contrasts with the narrator's romantic ideals.
- [v](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/calvary_se/chapters/v.md): The lavish apartment and its furnishings symbolize material excess and social aspiration. The narrator's discomfort with the opulence and his regret over the move highlight tensions between love and material concerns.
- [vi](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/calvary_se/chapters/vi.md): The relentless pursuit of luxury goods, the display of wealth in public, and the corrupting influence of money on relationships and social standing are central to this chapter.
- [vii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/calvary_se/chapters/vii.md): Juliette's desire for jewelry and gowns, and her plan to earn money as a horsewoman, underscore the role of material wealth in their relationship.
- [ix](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/calvary_se/chapters/ix.md): The narrator contrasts Juliette's world of races and banquets with the desolate beach and peasant life, highlighting her mercenary nature.

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