Social Class and Prejudice

Social Class and Prejudice appears as a literary theme in 6 works in the BetterReads curated set. Each book develops the idea in its own plot, voice, and historical moment — the links below open the book-scoped theme guide beside the text.

Freckles' lack of name, wealth, and social standing creates barriers between him and the Angel, forcing him to confront societal judgments about worth and honor.

Class distinctions and anti-Semitism are prominent, with characters like the Levinnes facing social ostracism despite their wealth, while the Deyres' aristocratic heritage is contrasted with the rising power of money.

The 'hired girls' like Ántonia and Lena are looked down upon by town society, yet they possess vitality and strength that contrast with the constrained, conventional lives of the middle-class townspeople.

The narrative exposes deep social divisions, particularly through the character of Candiola, the miserly and despised 'Mallorcan Jew,' whose wealth and lack of patriotism isolate him and his daughter from the community.

The book explores class distinctions through the charwoman's lowly status and the prejudice she faces, culminating in a royal pardon that annuls her low birth and allows her to marry above her station.

The book examines class divisions through the relationship between Princess Irene (royalty) and Curdie (a miner's son), highlighting how prejudice and mistrust based on social standing are overcome through mutual respect and shared bravery.