Social Class and Wealth

Where it surfaces

• IV

  Mrs. Thorpe's status as a not very rich widow and the comparison of lace on pelisses highlight class consciousness.

• Chapter VIII

  The ballroom setting highlights the importance of social standing and the pressure to secure a partner to avoid disgrace.

• Chapter IX

  Thorpe's inquiries about Mr. Allen's wealth and drinking habits highlight the preoccupation with money and status in Bath society.

• Chapter XII

  General Tilney's control over his daughter's social interactions and John Thorpe's flattery about the General's wealth highlight class dynamics.

• Chapter XV

  Isabella's concerns about fortune and her visions of a carriage and hoop rings underscore the importance of wealth and status in marriage.

• Chapter XVII

  General Tilney's invitation highlights the social gulf between Catherine's modest family and the wealthy Tilneys, yet he seeks her company.

• XX

  General Tilney's lavish travel arrangements and constant attentions highlight the power and discomfort of wealth and status.

• Chapter XXVI

  Catherine's anxiety about her own lack of fortune mirrors Isabella's situation, highlighting the importance of wealth in marriage prospects.

• Chapter XXX

  General Tilney's anger is fueled by John Thorpe's false claims about the Morlands' poverty, highlighting the importance of wealth and status in marriage.

• Chapter XXXI

  General Tilney's change of heart is driven by Eleanor's marriage to a titled, wealthy man and the discovery of Catherine's modest fortune, underscoring the role of class and money in marital alliances.