# What Social Class and Community means in Soldiers’ Pay

> The small Southern town's social hierarchies are evident in characters like Mrs. Burney, who gains status through her son's death, and in the gossip and judgment that shape interactions among the Saunders, the rectory, and the townspeople.

## Explanation

The small Southern town's social hierarchies are evident in characters like Mrs. Burney, who gains status through her son's death, and in the gossip and judgment that shape interactions among the Saunders, the rectory, and the townspeople.

The interaction between Margaret and Emmy reveals class tensions and the bridging of differences through shared experience and generosity.

Mrs. Burney's pride in being spoken to by Mrs. Worthington and Mrs. Saunders due to her son's death.

Mrs. Worthington's wealth and her car symbolize social privilege, while her domineering nature and the cousin's war injury highlight class and community dynamics.

The dance at the country club showcases social hierarchies, with wallflowers, veterans, and the elite like Mr. Rivers navigating status and belonging.

## Links

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