Class and Snobbery

Social hierarchies are evident in Mrs. Baxter's disdain for Amy's grocer background and Baptist faith, and in the characters' preoccupations with propriety and social standing.

Mrs. Baxter's disapproval of Amy's lower-class background and her relief at Amy's death highlight class tensions.

Mrs. Stapleton's condescending attitude toward orthodox Christianity and her fascination with the 'psychical atmosphere' of Stantons reflects social pretensions.

Mrs. Baxter's pride and her view of the Vicar's wife reflect class distinctions within the church and society.

Maggie's internal reasoning about love and her perception of Laurie as not being a 'spotless hero' touches on social expectations and class distinctions.