Greene Ferne Farm · Question
How does Greene Ferne Farm develop the theme of Labour and Class Struggle?
Answer
Greene Ferne Farm by Richard Jefferies develops Labour and Class Struggle across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The narrative directly addresses the conflict between capital and labour, exemplified by the haymakers' strike, the backbreaking toil of gleaners, and the stubborn pride of agricultural workers, highlighting the economic pressures and injustices faced by the rural poor.
The mill's grinding of corn and the threshing-floor workers reflect the relentless toil of the lower classes, while Andrew's brutal dominance over them highlights class oppression.
The haymakers' strike and its resolution highlight class tensions and the power dynamics between landowners and labourers.
The gleaners are depicted as worn, faceless women whose hearts are 'pinched with poverty,' contrasting with Andrew Fisher's idle wealth.
Evidence in the book
- III: The Nether Millstone
The mill's grinding of corn and the threshing-floor workers reflect the relentless toil of the lower classes, while Andrew's brutal dominance over them highlights class oppression.
- IV: The Wooden Bottle
The haymakers' strike and its resolution highlight class tensions and the power dynamics between landowners and labourers.
- IX: Gleaning
The gleaners are depicted as worn, faceless women whose hearts are 'pinched with poverty,' contrasting with Andrew Fisher's idle wealth.
- X: A Fray
The two laborers, 'odd-me-dods' and 'gawnies,' are called upon to assist the wounded gentleman, highlighting the class divide and the reliance on rural workers.
