12.2 The representation of the working class in literature
9 min read•august 20, 2024
The representation of the working class in 18th and 19th century literature reflected the social and economic realities of the time. Authors explored the challenges faced by workers, shedding light on their struggles and aspirations through themes of poverty, social mobility, and dignity in labor.
Working class characters were portrayed with varying depth and complexity, serving as vehicles for . The literature examined class conflict, unionization, and labor movements, while also depicting the harsh settings of factories, mines, and rural farms where workers lived and toiled.
Working class themes
The representation of working class themes in 18th and 19th century literature reflects the social and economic realities of the time period
Authors explored the challenges and experiences of the working class, shedding light on their struggles and aspirations
Working class themes served as a means of social commentary and criticism, highlighting the inequalities and injustices of the class system
Poverty and hardship
Top images from around the web for Poverty and hardship
Woman in the Nineteenth Century | American Literature I View original
Is this image relevant?
1 of 3
Depictions of the dire living conditions and financial struggles faced by the working class
Lack of access to basic necessities such as adequate food, clothing, and shelter
The impact of poverty on physical and mental health, including malnutrition, disease, and stress
The cycle of poverty and the difficulty of breaking free from it
Social mobility aspirations
The desire of working class characters to improve their social and economic standing
The pursuit of education and skill acquisition as a means of advancement
The obstacles and barriers to social mobility, such as lack of opportunities and discrimination
The rare success stories of individuals who manage to rise above their working class origins
Dignity in labor
The portrayal of working class characters as hardworking and dedicated to their jobs
The pride and satisfaction derived from honest labor and a job well done
The value placed on manual labor and the skills required for various working class occupations
The recognition of the essential role played by the working class in society and the economy
Portrayal of working class characters
The representation of working class characters in literature reflects the authors' perspectives and the prevailing attitudes of the time
Working class characters serve as vehicles for exploring social issues and critiquing the class system
The depth and complexity of working class characters vary depending on the author and the work
Realistic depictions vs stereotypes
Some authors strive for authentic and nuanced portrayals of working class characters
Others rely on stereotypes and caricatures, presenting working class characters as one-dimensional or comical
Stereotypical depictions often reinforce negative attitudes and prejudices towards the working class
Realistic portrayals humanize working class characters and challenge assumptions about their lives and experiences
Protagonists from working class backgrounds
Some works feature working class characters as the central protagonists, allowing for in-depth exploration of their struggles and triumphs
Examples include Jude Fawley in Thomas Hardy's "Jude the Obscure" and Margaret Hale in Elizabeth Gaskell's "North and South"
These protagonists often serve as a lens through which readers can examine the social and economic realities of the working class
Their journeys and character arcs often involve grappling with issues of class identity and social mobility
Supporting characters and minor roles
Working class characters also appear in supporting roles or as minor characters in many works
These characters often serve to provide a contrast to the upper class protagonists or to highlight social inequalities
Examples include the factory workers in Elizabeth Gaskell's "Mary Barton" and the servants in ' novels
While not the focus of the narrative, these characters contribute to the overall representation of the working class in literature
Class conflict and struggle
The tension and antagonism between the working class and the upper classes is a recurring theme in 18th and 19th century literature
Authors explore the power dynamics and inequalities that characterize class relations
Class conflict is often portrayed as a struggle for rights, dignity, and fair treatment
Exploitation by upper classes
The ways in which the upper classes exploit and oppress the working class for their own benefit
The use of low wages, long hours, and poor working conditions to maximize profits
The lack of concern for the well-being and safety of working class employees
The dehumanization and commodification of working class labor
Unionization and labor movements
The efforts of working class characters to organize and collectively advocate for their rights
The formation of trade unions and labor associations to negotiate better wages and working conditions
The challenges and obstacles faced by labor movements, such as opposition from employers and the government
The role of literature in raising awareness and garnering support for the labor cause
Strikes and protests in literature
The depiction of strikes, protests, and other forms of working class resistance in literature
Examples include the labor unrest in Elizabeth Gaskell's "North and South" and the Chartist movement in Charles Kingsley's ""
The use of these events to highlight the grievances and demands of the working class
The impact of strikes and protests on the characters and the broader society within the narrative
Working class settings
The physical environments and spaces inhabited by working class characters in literature
These settings serve to illustrate the living and working conditions of the working class
The descriptions of these settings often convey a sense of grit, hardship, and industrial bleakness
Urban factories and mills
The portrayal of factories and mills as sites of industrial labor and working class exploitation
The harsh and dangerous working conditions, including long hours, poor ventilation, and exposure to hazardous machinery
The dehumanizing effect of factory work on the characters, reducing them to cogs in the industrial machine
Examples include the cotton mills in Elizabeth Gaskell's "North and South" and the factories in Charles Dickens' "Hard Times"
Rural farms and villages
The depiction of rural working class life, often characterized by agricultural labor and close-knit communities
The challenges of rural poverty, including the impact of enclosure and the decline of traditional ways of life
The portrayal of rural working class characters as simple, honest, and closely connected to the land
Examples include the agricultural laborers in Thomas Hardy's novels and the village communities in George Eliot's works
Mines and industrial landscapes
The representation of mines and mining communities as sites of working and hardship
The dangerous and physically demanding nature of mining work, including the risk of accidents and health problems
The social and economic impact of mining on working class families and communities
Examples include the coal mines in D.H. Lawrence's "Sons and Lovers" and the industrial landscapes in Charles Dickens' "Hard Times"
Language and dialect
The use of language and dialect to represent the speech patterns and vernacular of working class characters
The ways in which language serves to mark class distinctions and reflect social hierarchies
The authenticity and accuracy of working class language in literature, and the potential for stereotyping or caricature
Representation of working class speech
The use of regional dialects, colloquialisms, and non-standard grammar to represent working class speech
The ways in which working class language is portrayed as rough, uneducated, or vulgar
The potential for working class speech to be a source of humor, mockery, or condescension in literature
The use of working class language as a marker of authenticity and in
Use of slang and colloquialisms
The incorporation of slang terms, idioms, and colloquialisms specific to working class communities
The ways in which slang serves to create a sense of group identity and solidarity among working class characters
The potential for slang to be used as a form of resistance or subversion against the dominant language of the upper classes
The challenges of interpreting and understanding working class slang for middle and upper class readers
Contrast with upper class language
The juxtaposition of working class language with the refined, educated speech of upper class characters
The ways in which language serves to reinforce class boundaries and highlight social inequalities
The use of language as a tool of power and oppression, with upper class characters asserting their dominance through their command of "proper" English
The subversive potential of working class characters adopting or mimicking upper class language as a form of social critique or satire
Significant working class authors
The contributions of authors from working class backgrounds to the representation of working class experiences in literature
The ways in which these authors drew on their own lived experiences and observations to create authentic and nuanced portrayals of working class life
The challenges faced by working class authors in gaining recognition and acceptance within the literary establishment
Charles Dickens and social criticism
Dickens' background as a child laborer and his firsthand experience of working class hardships
The ways in which Dickens used his novels to expose and critique the social ills and inequalities of Victorian society
The vivid and memorable working class characters in Dickens' works, such as the orphan Oliver Twist and the factory worker Stephen Blackpool
The impact of Dickens' social criticism on public awareness and attitudes towards the working class
Elizabeth Gaskell's industrial novels
Gaskell's experience living in the industrial city of Manchester and her observations of working class life
The realistic and sympathetic portrayal of working class characters in Gaskell's novels, such as "Mary Barton" and "North and South"
The ways in which Gaskell used her novels to explore the social and economic impact of industrialization on working class communities
The role of Gaskell's works in promoting understanding and empathy between the classes and advocating for social reform
Thomas Hardy's rural working class
Hardy's background as the son of a stonemason and his firsthand knowledge of rural working class life
The portrayal of agricultural laborers and rural craftsmen in Hardy's novels, such as "Jude the Obscure" and "Tess of the d'Urbervilles"
The ways in which Hardy used his works to critique the social and economic changes that threatened traditional rural ways of life
The tragic and poignant depictions of working class characters struggling against the constraints of class and circumstance in Hardy's novels
Evolution of working class representation
The changes and developments in the portrayal of the working class in literature over the course of the 18th and 19th centuries
The ways in which shifting social, economic, and political contexts influenced the representation of working class experiences
The role of literature in shaping public perceptions and attitudes towards the working class
Romanticism to Victorian realism
The shift from the idealized and sentimentalized portrayals of the working class in Romantic literature to the more realistic and gritty depictions in Victorian novels
The increasing focus on the social and economic realities of working class life in Victorian literature, reflecting the impact of industrialization and
The ways in which Victorian authors used their works to expose and critique the harsh conditions and inequalities faced by the working class
The emergence of the "social problem novel" as a genre specifically concerned with representing and addressing working class issues
Sentimentality vs gritty naturalism
The contrast between the sentimental and idealized portrayals of the working class in some works and the gritty, naturalistic depictions in others
The use of sentimentality to evoke sympathy and pathos for working class characters, often portraying them as noble and virtuous despite their hardships
The emergence of as a literary style that sought to represent the working class with unflinching realism and attention to detail
The ways in which naturalistic works challenged romantic notions of the working class and exposed the harsh realities of their lives
Changing attitudes and sympathies
The gradual shift in public attitudes and sympathies towards the working class over the course of the 18th and 19th centuries
The role of literature in raising awareness of working class issues and promoting empathy and understanding between the classes
The ways in which changing political and social movements, such as Chartism and the labor movement, influenced the representation of the working class in literature
The emergence of working class authors and the increasing diversity of voices and perspectives in the portrayal of working class experiences
Key Terms to Review (20)
Alton Locke: Alton Locke is a novel written by Charles Kingsley, first published in 1850. The story revolves around the struggles of a young tailor in Victorian England who grapples with issues of class, social justice, and personal identity. This work is significant for its portrayal of the working class and its exploration of the harsh realities faced by artisans during a time of industrialization and societal change.
Characterization: Characterization is the process by which an author reveals the personality, traits, and motives of a character in a narrative. It includes both direct characterization, where the author explicitly describes a character, and indirect characterization, where the character’s actions, speech, and thoughts provide insight into their personality. This technique plays a crucial role in developing realism in literature, showcasing social issues, and creating depth in character portrayal.
Charles Dickens: Charles Dickens was a renowned English writer and social critic, best known for his vivid characters and depictions of Victorian society. His works often blend satire, realism, and social commentary, shedding light on the struggles of the lower classes and critiquing the social injustices of his time.
Class struggle: Class struggle refers to the ongoing conflict between different classes in society, particularly between the ruling class and the working class. This concept explores how economic inequalities lead to social tensions and a fight for power and resources, often reflected in literature as a critique of societal norms and injustices.
David Copperfield: David Copperfield is a semi-autobiographical novel written by Charles Dickens, first published in 1850, that follows the life of its titular character from childhood to adulthood. The novel explores themes of personal growth, social class, and the struggles faced by individuals in Victorian society, making it a key work for understanding realism and social commentary in literature.
Feminist criticism: Feminist criticism is a literary approach that examines texts through the lens of gender dynamics, focusing on how literature reinforces or challenges the roles and experiences of women in society. It analyzes themes of gender inequality, representation, and the power structures that influence women's lives, often highlighting the underrepresentation and misrepresentation of female voices in literature. This approach connects deeply with the social and historical context of the time periods it critiques.
George Orwell: George Orwell was an influential British writer known for his novels and essays that critique totalitarianism and advocate for social justice. His works, particularly 'Animal Farm' and '1984', provide a profound exploration of the struggles faced by the working class, examining the themes of oppression, propaganda, and the abuse of power in society. Orwell’s clear, accessible writing style combined with his political insights has made him a key figure in understanding the representation of the working class in literature.
Germinal: 'Germinal' is a novel by Émile Zola, published in 1885, that portrays the struggles and hardships of the working class during the industrial revolution in France. It focuses on the life of coal miners and their fight against oppressive conditions, highlighting themes of class struggle, social injustice, and the quest for better living conditions. Zola uses a realistic narrative style to depict the harsh realities faced by workers, making it a seminal work in the representation of labor and its plight in literature.
Industrial Revolution: The Industrial Revolution was a period of significant technological, economic, and social change that began in the late 18th century and continued into the 19th century, marked by the transition from agrarian economies to industrialized ones. This shift brought about major advancements in machinery, manufacturing processes, and urbanization, leading to profound changes in society, culture, and literature.
Jean Valjean: Jean Valjean is the central character in Victor Hugo's novel 'Les Misérables', representing the struggles of an ex-convict seeking redemption in 19th-century France. His journey reflects the harsh realities faced by the working class, highlighting themes of poverty, injustice, and the quest for a better life amidst societal oppression.
Marxist literary criticism: Marxist literary criticism is an approach to analyzing literature that focuses on the socio-economic contexts in which works are produced and received, emphasizing the role of class struggle, power dynamics, and material conditions. This perspective views literature as a reflection of society's economic base and helps illuminate the relationships between culture, ideology, and social class.
Mary Barton by Elizabeth Gaskell: Mary Barton is a novel published in 1848 that provides a vivid portrayal of the struggles faced by the working class in industrial Manchester during the early Victorian era. Through the story of its title character, Mary, the novel explores themes of poverty, love, and social injustice, highlighting the harsh realities of life for laborers and their families as they navigate a society marked by class division and economic hardship.
Naturalism: Naturalism is a literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century, emphasizing a realistic portrayal of life by applying the principles of scientific objectivity and determinism. It focuses on how environment, heredity, and social conditions shape human behavior, often highlighting the darker aspects of life and the struggle for survival.
North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell: North and South is a novel by Elizabeth Gaskell published in 1854-1855 that explores the stark contrasts between industrial northern England and the agrarian south. This work not only highlights the impact of industrialization on society and culture but also provides a nuanced representation of the working class, making it a key text in understanding the changing social landscape of the time.
Proletariat: The proletariat refers to the working class, particularly those who do not own the means of production and must sell their labor to survive. This group is often depicted as being exploited by the bourgeoisie, or the owning class, in capitalist societies. The term highlights social and economic inequalities and becomes a central focus in various literary movements that comment on the realities faced by workers.
Realism: Realism is a literary movement that emerged in the mid-19th century, focusing on the representation of everyday life and ordinary people with an emphasis on accuracy and truthfulness. This movement sought to portray life as it truly was, often addressing social issues and moral dilemmas faced by individuals in society.
Social commentary: Social commentary refers to the act of using literary works to critique societal norms, issues, and injustices, often aiming to provoke thought and inspire change. It serves as a reflection of the author's observations on their contemporary society and highlights disparities, moral dilemmas, and social challenges. Through various narrative techniques and character developments, this form of commentary can influence readers' perceptions and encourage them to engage with critical social issues.
Social injustice: Social injustice refers to the unequal distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society, often leading to the marginalization of certain groups. This concept highlights how societal structures and practices can create disparities in rights, resources, and power, resulting in the oppression of individuals or communities. Social injustice is a recurring theme in literature, where it is critiqued and examined through various lenses, particularly in the context of societal critiques and the representation of working-class struggles.
Sons and Lovers by D.H. Lawrence: Sons and Lovers is a novel by D.H. Lawrence published in 1913 that focuses on the life of Paul Morel, a young man from a working-class family in early 20th century England. The narrative explores themes of class struggle, family dynamics, and the complexities of love, particularly the relationships between Paul, his mother, and his romantic interests. This novel vividly portrays the struggles and aspirations of the working class in a rapidly changing industrial society.
Urbanization: Urbanization is the process by which rural areas transform into urban centers, marked by an increase in population density and the growth of cities. This phenomenon was largely driven by industrialization, leading to significant changes in society, culture, and the environment, which are reflected in various literary forms and themes.