The Woman in White · Question
How does The Woman in White develop the theme of Class and Social Hierarchy?
Answer
The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins develops Class and Social Hierarchy across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Class distinctions shape characters' fates, as seen in Walter Hartright's position as a drawing teacher, the Fairlies' aristocratic status, and the vulnerability of lower-class women like Anne Catherick to institutional abuse.
Walter is to be treated on the footing of a gentleman at Limmeridge House, highlighting the social status of a drawing master in a wealthy household.
Marian notes the economic disparity between herself and Laura, reflecting class distinctions within the family.
Mr. Fairlie's condescending treatment of Walter and his disdain for the local gentry highlight class distinctions and the precarious social position of an artist in Victorian society.
Evidence in the book
- III
Walter is to be treated on the footing of a gentleman at Limmeridge House, highlighting the social status of a drawing master in a wealthy household.
- VI
Marian notes the economic disparity between herself and Laura, reflecting class distinctions within the family.
- VII
Mr. Fairlie's condescending treatment of Walter and his disdain for the local gentry highlight class distinctions and the precarious social position of an artist in Victorian society.
- IX
Walter's position as a hired drawing master makes his love for Laura socially impossible, highlighting the rigid class divisions of Victorian society.
- The Discovery of the Forgery
Marian spares Walter the humiliation of discussing social inequalities, yet the class divide between Walter and Laura is central to the conflict.
- XIV
The power imbalance between Sir Percival (a baronet) and Anne (a poor woman) is central to the suspicion about her confinement.
- Chapter XV
Walter's position as a drawing-master creates an insurmountable barrier between him and Laura, a theme reinforced by Mr. Gilmore's condescending remarks about 'romantic' versus 'practical' views.
- I
Sir Percival's mention of Mrs. Catherick's 'respectable station' and his patronage of her family highlight class distinctions and obligations.
