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The Communist Manifesto · Theme

Bourgeoisie and Proletariat

How The Communist Manifesto develops Bourgeoisie and Proletariat.

The text defines and contrasts these two primary classes of modern society, portraying the bourgeoisie as the revolutionary ruling class that exploits wage labor and the proletariat as the exploited class destined to overthrow capitalism.

Where it surfaces

  • I: Bourgeois and Proletarians

    The central focus is on the development and opposition of these two classes, with the bourgeoisie as the ruling class and the proletariat as its revolutionary gravedigger.

  • 2: Conservative or Bourgeois Socialism

    Bourgeois socialism is depicted as desiring a bourgeoisie without a proletariat, highlighting the inherent class antagonism.