The American Dream and Materialism

Eliza's relentless pursuit of property and wealth contrasts with Oliver's romantic wanderlust, highlighting the tension between material success and spiritual fulfillment, with property ownership seen as the ultimate measure of worth.

Eliza's relentless pursuit of property and financial security contrasts with Oliver's artistic yearnings, embodying the tension between material success and spiritual fulfillment.

Oliver's pursuit of success as a stonecutter and the Pentlands' focus on property and prosperity reflect the American Dream.

Eliza's relentless drive to acquire land and property, and Oliver's contrasting focus on his artistic craft, highlight different visions of success.

Eliza's focus on property ownership and financial security contrasts with Oliver's reckless spending, highlighting the central conflict over materialism and the pursuit of wealth.