Manhattan Transfer · Question
How does Manhattan Transfer develop the theme of Social Class and Inequality?
Answer
Manhattan Transfer by John Dos Passos develops Social Class and Inequality across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The book contrasts the lives of the wealthy (Goldweiser, Baldwin) with the poor and struggling (Bud, the Italian immigrant, the old man on the stoop), highlighting the vast divides and the brutal struggle for survival in the metropolis.
Bud's worn shoes and clothes mark him as lower class; the lunch counter man advises him to look presentable; Ed Thatcher and Mr. Zucher discuss money and the cost of raising children.
The tenement fire traps the poor; Marco preaches anarchist revolution against capitalist oppression; the sailors discuss class and opportunity.
Ellen's question about wealth, the poverty of the sailor and Bud, and Baldwin's disdain for the 'low Irish and foreigners' in the West Side all highlight class divisions and economic disparity.
Evidence in the book
- I: Ferryslip
Bud's worn shoes and clothes mark him as lower class; the lunch counter man advises him to look presentable; Ed Thatcher and Mr. Zucher discuss money and the cost of raising children.
- II: Metropolis
The tenement fire traps the poor; Marco preaches anarchist revolution against capitalist oppression; the sailors discuss class and opportunity.
- III: Dollars
Ellen's question about wealth, the poverty of the sailor and Bud, and Baldwin's disdain for the 'low Irish and foreigners' in the West Side all highlight class divisions and economic disparity.
- Tracks
The Merivale dinner conversation reveals deep class and ethnic prejudices, while Ed Thatcher's financial gamble reflects the precariousness of middle-class life.
- V: Steamroller
The contrast between the wealthy club lunch and the Bowery flophouse highlights the vast class divide in New York.
- VIII: One More River to Jordan
The soapbox orator's speech and the subway ride highlight class tensions; the dinner debate contrasts capitalist and socialist views.
- I: Rejoicing City That Dwelt Carelessly
The deportation of 'undesirable aliens' and the contrast between the wealthy diners and the silent crowd highlight class tensions.
- IV: Skyscraper
Anna and Elmer discuss the strike and the worker's struggle, contrasting with the wealthy characters and the violent destruction of property in Goldstein's shop.
