The Arrow of Gold · Theme

Class and Aristocracy

How The Arrow of Gold develops Class and Aristocracy.

The book examines the rigid social hierarchies of European aristocracy, the pretensions of the Blunts, and the commodification of people like Doña Rita, who is treated as a valuable object or prize.

Where it surfaces

II
Blunt's narrative highlights the social hierarchies and the scandal of Rita's rise from peasant stock to the center of Parisian high society.
III
The conversation reveals the social expectations and gossip surrounding Doña Rita, a wealthy heiress, and the aristocratic circles she moves in.
III
The narrator's disguise as a sailor and the presence of the Blunts, described as 'American, Catholic, and gentleman,' underscore class distinctions.
I
The narrator's feelings of inadequacy compared to Mr. Blunt and the social dynamics between the characters reflect class distinctions.
II
The Blunts' aristocratic pretensions and exile status are central; Mrs. Blunt emphasizes social position over wealth.
Chapter III
Mrs. Blunt's aristocratic perspective on marriage and social standing, viewing Rita as a suitable match for her son.
IV
Rita's interactions with the aristocratic old lady and the noble suitor underscore class distinctions and the burdens of aristocratic expectations.