Robbery Under Arms · Question
How does Robbery Under Arms develop the theme of Class and Social Mobility?
Answer
Robbery Under Arms by Rolf Boldrewood develops Class and Social Mobility across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The book examines class distinctions in colonial Australia, with characters like Starlight (a fallen gentleman) and the Marstons (bush natives) navigating a society where wealth and status can be gained or lost through crime or luck.
Father's admiration for Starlight as a 'gentleman' despite his criminal life reflects the colonial Australian fascination with class and the perceived natural superiority of the educated elite.
Dick contrasts the struggles of poor farmers with the resources of wealthy squatters, highlighting class inequality in the colony.
Mr. Falkland represents the possibility of improvement through hard work, but Dick is skeptical that the upper class will share opportunities.
Evidence in the book
- Terrible Hollow
Father's admiration for Starlight as a 'gentleman' despite his criminal life reflects the colonial Australian fascination with class and the perceived natural superiority of the educated elite.
- VII
Dick contrasts the struggles of poor farmers with the resources of wealthy squatters, highlighting class inequality in the colony.
- VIII
Mr. Falkland represents the possibility of improvement through hard work, but Dick is skeptical that the upper class will share opportunities.
- IX
The encounter between Miss Falkland, a wealthy landowner's daughter, and Jim Marston, a shearer, highlights class boundaries and moments of cross-class kindness.
- XII
Starlight's ability to pass as a wealthy squatter and dine at Government House illustrates the fluidity of social class in colonial Australia, where money and performance could mask a criminal past.
- Homecoming and Family Tension
George Storefield's rise from humble beginnings contrasts with the Marstons' stagnation, highlighting themes of hard work versus outlawry.
- XV
George's rise from humble beginnings to prosperous farmer contrasts with the Marstons' descent into outlawry.
- The Trial and Sentencing
The defense criticizes wealthy squatters for monopolizing land and creating temptation for the poor, highlighting class tensions.
