The Luck of Barry Lyndon · Question
How does The Luck of Barry Lyndon develop the theme of Class and Pedigree?
Answer
The Luck of Barry Lyndon by William Makepeace Thackeray develops Class and Pedigree across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The book satirizes the obsession with noble birth and genealogy, as Barry fabricates his lineage to gain entry into high society, while the aristocracy is portrayed as corrupt and gullible.
Barry's extensive boast about his noble lineage and the family's lost estates underscores the importance of birth and social standing.
Barry proudly displays his father's sword and pistols, emphasizing his family's noble lineage and gentlemanly status.
Barry's disdain for low company and his pride in his Barry lineage contrast with his forced association with common soldiers, highlighting class tensions.
Evidence in the book
- My Pedigree and Family—Undergo the Influence of the Tender Passion
Barry's extensive boast about his noble lineage and the family's lost estates underscores the importance of birth and social standing.
- II: I Show Myself to Be a Man of Spirit
Barry proudly displays his father's sword and pistols, emphasizing his family's noble lineage and gentlemanly status.
- IV: In Which Barry Takes a Near View of Military Glory
Barry's disdain for low company and his pride in his Barry lineage contrast with his forced association with common soldiers, highlighting class tensions.
- VI: The Crimp Wagon—Military Episodes
Barry is concerned about his social degradation as a private soldier, noting that no one from his acquaintance will witness his shame. The Prussian army's dismissal of non-noble officers in peacetime also touches on class.
- Barry Leads a Garrison Life, and Finds Many Friends There
Barry's pride in his gentlemanly birth contrasts with his role as a servant; he emphasizes his breeding to gain favor and maintain self-respect.
- Barry's Adieu to Military Profession
The Chevalier laments the loss of the Barry family lands and the decline of their noble lineage.
- IX: I Appear in a Manner Becoming My Name and Lineage
Barry asserts that play is an institution of chivalry, a privilege of gentlemen, and contrasts it with middle-class shopkeeper cant.
- More Runs of Luck
Barry emphasizes his own lineage (Ballybarry, King Brian Boru) while dismissing German nobility, yet relies on marriage to rise.
