Social Class and Hierarchy

The book meticulously details the rigid social stratification of rural Victorian England, from the subtle distinctions in how long farmers keep their hats on in church to the hierarchical meaning of clothing, and the stark divide between landowners, farmers, and labourers.

The chapter meticulously details the social stratification of the village, from the farmers' hats and smocks to the seating in church, and the deference shown to Squire Thorpe.