Social Class and Ambition

Where it surfaces

• I

  Saïd dreams of rising from a poor fisherman to a coffeehouse owner, then to Effendi, Bey, and Emir, illustrating his desire to climb the social ladder.

• V

  Saïd's insistence on his former greatness and his rivalry with the beggar over who was more wealthy underscores the importance of social status and the pain of losing it.

• VII

  Saïd's desire to enter the great city in triumph rather than beggary, and his envy of the missionary's possessions, highlight his ambition to rise above his station.

• IX

  Saïd's obsession with appearing as a great man, his pride in his borrowed robe, and his disdain for the villagers and innkeeper highlight the theme of social climbing and the performance of status.

• The Arrival at the Great City

  Saïd's fine robe and horse grant him respect, and he plans to sell his horse to sustain himself, reflecting class dynamics.

• XII

  Saïd's discomfort among the wealthy and his attempt to appear as a man of consequence highlight his ambition and the social hierarchies of the city.

• XIII

  Saïd's rise in status is marked by hiring a servant and buying a new robe, while Selìm's position as a servant highlights class distinctions.

• XV

  Saïd's attempt to climb socially by begging from the Sherìf contrasts with Selìm's humble loyalty, highlighting class distinctions and the pursuit of status.

• XVI

  Saïd's discontent with his lowly trade and his longing for the 'cup of greatness' highlight his ambition to rise above his current social standing.

• II

  Saïd's desire to acquire Mahmud's house symbolizes his ambition to rise in social status, despite his humble origins.

• IX

  Saïd's fall from wealth and status is central, as he is shunned by former acquaintances and struggles with the loss of his former grandeur.