The Middle of Things · Theme
Class and Inheritance
How The Middle of Things develops Class and Inheritance.
The story explores aristocratic titles, estates, and inheritance rights, particularly through the potential claim of Miss Wickham to the Ellingham peerage and the legal battles over property.
Where it surfaces
- IX: Looking Backward
The story of the Earl's estate, the missing heir, and the legal battle over the title and lands highlights themes of aristocracy and inheritance.
- X: The Parish Register
Pawle explains the legal mechanics of inheriting a title and estates, and the potential motive for murder if Ashton was the rightful earl seeking to reclaim his position.
- XIV: The Ellingham Motto
The discovery of the letters and locket ties Avice's identity to the Ellingham title and inheritance, highlighting class and succession issues.
- XVII: The Claimant
The dispute over the Ellingham title and estates, and the revelation that Avice Wickham may be the rightful heir, underscore the importance of inheritance and social standing.
- XVIII: Let Him Appear!
The meeting concerns the rightful inheritance of the Ellingham title and estate, with legal and financial stakes for all parties.
- XIX: Under Examination
The discussion of Avice's potential claim to the title and estates of Ellingham highlights themes of inheritance and social standing.
- XXI: The Marseilles Meeting
The revelation that Avice Wickham is the rightful Countess of Ellingham highlights the class and inheritance stakes of the mystery.
- XXIX: Who Is to Tell Her?
The legal and social implications of Avice inheriting the title and estates are central to the chapter.