Class and Snobbery

The book satirizes the British class system through characters like Mr. Abney, who fawns over aristocratic pupils, and Mrs. Drassilis, whose social climbing and greed drive much of the conflict.

Mrs. Drassilis's concern over Cynthia's marriage prospects and her disapproval of Peter reflect class-based anxieties and snobbery.

Mr. Abney's deference to the Duke of Devizes and his emphasis on molding 'hereditary legislators' highlight the class-consciousness of the setting.

Peter's former wealth and complacency are contrasted with his current working life, and Audrey's fall from a comfortable marriage to dependence on work.

Audrey's varied work experiences—nurse, waitress, dressmaker—underscore class mobility and the struggles of maintaining dignity across social strata.