The Maid of Sker · Question
How does The Maid of Sker develop the theme of Social Class and Identity?
Answer
The Maid of Sker by R. D. Blackmore develops Social Class and Identity across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The book explores the rigid class distinctions of 18th-century British society, as seen through the orphaned child Bardie's uncertain origins, the narrator Davy Llewellyn's navigation between common folk and gentry, and characters' preoccupations with lineage, inheritance, and social standing.
Davy contrasts his humble origins and lack of education with the wealthy patron and the 'cleverest hand at a bait,' reflecting on class and his place in society.
Davy's conflict with Evan Thomas over fishing rights highlights tensions between commoners and local landowners.
The contrast between Bardie's refined cleanliness and the rough, impoverished setting of Sker-Grange underscores class distinctions.
Evidence in the book
- Fisherman Davy a Fish Out of Water
Davy contrasts his humble origins and lack of education with the wealthy patron and the 'cleverest hand at a bait,' reflecting on class and his place in society.
- The Fish Are as Hungry as He Is
Davy's conflict with Evan Thomas over fishing rights highlights tensions between commoners and local landowners.
- Finds a Home of Some Sort
The contrast between Bardie's refined cleanliness and the rough, impoverished setting of Sker-Grange underscores class distinctions.
- VIII: Children Will Be Children
Davy speculates on Bardie's high birth based on her dress and speech, and considers the potential reward for restoring her, reflecting class distinctions.
- The Coroner and the Coronet
The coroner's treatment of the dead is dictated by race and class: he refuses to sit on black men but eagerly takes the case of a white infant with a coronet.
- In Accordance with the Evidence
Bardie's noble lineage is inferred from her refined behavior and the coronet mark on the baby's pinafore, influencing how she is treated.
- XVI: Truth Lies Sometimes in a Well
Davy's pride in his Welsh heritage and his resentment of the Scottish fisherman Sandy Macraw reflect class and regional identity tensions.
- For a Little Change of Air
The children's attention to clothes and Davy's concern for Bardie's station highlight class and domestic propriety.
