Nostromo · Theme
Class and Social Hierarchy
How Nostromo develops Class and Social Hierarchy.
The novel contrasts the aristocracy, the bourgeoisie, and the working class, with figures like Nostromo as a 'Man of the People' and the Goulds representing the elite, revealing tensions and dependencies across social strata.
Where it surfaces
- Author's Note
Contrast between Nostromo, the man of the people, and Antonia, the aristocrat, highlights class dynamics in the creation of a new state.
- Part I: The Silver of the Mine
The chapter highlights the social stratification in Sulaco, from the wealthy mine owners to the workers and indigenous population.
- II
Nostromo's leadership over lightermen and the distinction between European residents and the native mob illustrate class divisions.
- III
Giorgio Viola's scorn for the 'scoundrels and leperos' highlights his sense of superiority as a former Garibaldino and his disdain for the lower-class rioters.
- IV
The Italian stronghold of the Casa Viola contrasts with the English engineers and the native Costaguanans, highlighting ethnic and class divisions.
- V
The contrast between aristocratic Blanco families and the humble origins of Montero highlights class tensions.
- VII
Depiction of landowners, muleteers, Indians, and officials highlights rigid social stratification in Costaguana.
- VIII
The chapter contrasts the unruly cargadores with the elite like the Goulds and Sir John; the miners' adoption of white hats and ponchos with green stripes marks a new social identity tied to the mine.
- I
The chapter contrasts the aristocratic Blanco party, represented by Don Jose Avellanos, with the brutal populism of Guzman Bento, and explores the social divisions within Costaguana.
- II
The division between the 'ricos' (wealthy families) and the populace is evident, as is the bandit Hernandez's attempt to buy a pardon through military service, highlighting class tensions.
- Chapter IV
The contrast between the European engineers, the local elite (Goulds, Avellanos), and the common people (Viola, Indio recruits) reveals deep social divisions.
- I
The contrast between Gamacho, a low-born demagogue, and Fuentes, a man of birth and education, highlights class tensions and the rise of populist figures.
- III
The transformation of Hernandez from bandit to general by official decree highlights the fluidity of social status in times of revolution; the emissary's pride in seeing his compadre made a general underscores this shift.
- V
The contrast between the ragged National Guard, the llaneros, and the aristocratic aspirations of Pedrito underscores class divisions.
- VI
The Indians of the valley are depicted as loyal to the mine, which provides them with security and identity, contrasting with the political chaos of the town.
- Chapter IX
Nostromo's bitter complaint that the poor are treated as dogs by the 'fine people' highlights the class divide and exploitation.
