Social Performance and Identity

Where it surfaces

• Psmith Explains

  Psmith performs the role of a model bank clerk while secretly plotting his social revenge, illustrating the performative nature of identity.

• VII: Going Into Winter Quarters

  Psmith performs the role of a diligent worker while subtly mocking bank discipline; Rossiter's unexpected defense shows the complexity of social roles.

• VIII: The Friendly Native

  Psmith deliberately performs a role to ingratiate himself with Rossiter, using conversation about hobbies as a social strategy.

• The Haunting of Mr. Bickersdyke

  Psmith performs the role of a friendly, well-bred clubman while deliberately provoking Bickersdyke, highlighting the performative nature of social interactions.

• X: Mr. Bickersdyke Addresses His Constituents

  Mr. Bickersdyke performs as a politician, but Psmith's interruptions expose the fragility of his public persona. The audience's rowdy behavior highlights the performative nature of political meetings.

• Misunderstood

  Psmith maintains a facade of cultured detachment and good intentions even as he recounts his role in the brawl, highlighting the performative nature of his social interactions.

• In a Nutshell

  Psmith performs the role of a calm, witty gentleman while Bickersdyke loses his composure, illustrating how social performance can shift power dynamics.

• Mike Is Moved On

  Psmith's tactful management of Mr. Rossiter and the social dynamics among bank employees highlight the performance of roles within the workplace.

• Mr. Waller Appears in a New Light

  Mr. Waller hides his Socialist beliefs at work, revealing them only to Psmith, highlighting the contrast between public and private identity.

• Stirring Times on the Common

  Mr. Waller's theatrical speaking style and the crowd's reaction highlight how public performance shapes identity and perception.

• Sunday Supper

  Mike feels deeply uncomfortable in a social setting outside his class, while Psmith adapts effortlessly, highlighting the contrast in their social performances.

• Psmith Makes a Discovery

  Psmith and Mike perform roles as interested socialists at Mr. Waller's gathering, while Bickersdyke's past socialist identity contrasts with his current Unionist ambitions.

• Mr. Bickersdyke Makes a Concession

  Bickersdyke's past socialist speeches contrast with his current conservative persona, highlighting the performative nature of identity.