The Luck of Barry Lyndon · Theme
Marriage as Transaction
How The Luck of Barry Lyndon develops Marriage as Transaction.
Marriage is depicted as a mercenary arrangement for financial gain and social advancement, as seen in Barry's pursuit of the wealthy Countess Lyndon and his subsequent abusive treatment of her for her fortune.
Where it surfaces
- A Bibliographical Note
The parallel between Barry's marriage to Lady Lyndon and Stoney-Bowes's marriage to the Countess of Strathmore underscores the theme of marriage as a financial and social transaction.
- My Pedigree and Family—Undergo the Influence of the Tender Passion
The story of the Barry daughter betraying her family for love of an English soldier, and Mrs. Barry's hopes to marry Lord Bagwig, illustrate marriage as a means of social or economic gain.
- More Runs of Luck
Barry explicitly states he wants the Countess Ida's wealth, not her love, and treats marriage as a means to consolidate fortune.
- XIII: I Continue My Career as a Man of Fashion
Sir Charles Lyndon's warning to Barry about marrying for wealth and the misery it brings highlights the transactional and often unhappy nature of such unions.
- XV: I Pay Court to My Lady Lyndon
Barry's pursuit of Lady Lyndon is driven by her wealth and status; he treats marriage as a strategic acquisition.
- I Provide Nobly for My Family
Marriages are portrayed as financial and social arrangements, as seen in Barry's union with Lady Lyndon and his plot for Ulick and Miss Kiljoy.
- I Appear as an Ornament of English Society
Barry controls Lady Lyndon through their son Bryan and uses her wealth to fund his lifestyle, treating the marriage as a means to power and money.
- My Good Fortune Begins to Waver
Barry laments the burdens of his marriage to Lady Lyndon, viewing it as a costly arrangement.
- Endnotes
Barry's marriage to Lady Lyndon is portrayed as a means to control her property; he bullied her into signing away her fortune and threatened to remove her children.