The Law and the Lady · Theme
Class and Social Appearance
How The Law and the Lady develops Class and Social Appearance.
The book contrasts social status and physical beauty, as seen in the plain wife's jealousy of the attractive Mrs. Beauly, and the critique of marriages based on money or appearance rather than genuine affection.
Where it surfaces
- III: Ramsgate Sands
The landlady's overfamiliar address of 'Mrs. Woodville' and the mother-in-law's disdain reflect class distinctions and the importance of social propriety.
- V: The Landlady’s Discovery
The landlady emphasizes her status as a 'gentlewoman' reduced to letting lodgings and her concern about 'taint' from mystery in a lodger's position, reflecting Victorian class anxieties.
- The Defense of Mrs. Beauly
Lady Clarinda's description of Mrs. Beauly's unconventional behavior and the social risks of attending a disreputable ball.
- Gleninch
The deserted grandeur of Gleninch contrasts with its tragic history, highlighting the gap between appearance and reality.
- The Last of the Story
Major Fitz-David's bride marries for money and status, revealing the mercenary side of Victorian marriage.