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On a Pincushion · Question

How does On a Pincushion develop the theme of Social Class and Worth?

Answer

On a Pincushion by Mary De Morgan develops Social Class and Worth across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.

The pincushion objects argue about their value based on past use and appearance, while stories like 'The Seeds of Love' and 'Siegfrid and Handa' explore how true worth is tied to character and kindness, not birth or status.

The pins' complaints about being unused reflect a hierarchy of value based on material and function.

Ursula's true worth is found in the humble fisherman's home, not in the rigid, emotionless court.

Evidence in the book

  • On a Pincushion

    The pins' complaints about being unused reflect a hierarchy of value based on material and function.

  • A Toy Princess

    Ursula's true worth is found in the humble fisherman's home, not in the rigid, emotionless court.

Characters

Themes