Class struggle

Definition

Class struggle refers to the conflict of interests between different social classes, primarily between the working class and the ruling class, which shapes society and drives historical change. This concept highlights how economic disparities lead to tensions and conflicts that can influence social, political, and economic structures. It emphasizes the ongoing battle for resources, rights, and power, often leading to revolutionary movements or reforms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Class struggle is a central theme in Marxist theory, where it is seen as the driving force behind historical development and social change.
2. In realism, literature often reflects class struggle by portraying the lives and struggles of different social classes, highlighting societal injustices.
3. The Industrial Revolution intensified class struggle by creating a distinct separation between the wealthy industrialists and the working poor, leading to organized labor movements.
4. Famous works, such as 'The Communist Manifesto,' advocate for the proletariat's rise against bourgeois oppression, underscoring the need for social revolution.
5. Class struggle can manifest in various forms, including strikes, protests, and political movements aimed at challenging existing power structures and advocating for equality.

Review Questions

• How does class struggle manifest in literature, particularly in the context of realism?
  • In realism, class struggle is depicted through characters who navigate the challenges posed by their social standing. Writers like Émile Zola often portrayed the harsh realities faced by the working class against an oppressive bourgeoisie. The stories illustrate not only personal struggles but also highlight broader societal issues related to poverty, inequality, and exploitation. By focusing on everyday life, realism exposes the conflict between social classes and invites readers to understand the implications of these struggles.
• What impact did the Industrial Revolution have on class struggle and social dynamics during that period?
  • The Industrial Revolution created significant shifts in social dynamics by giving rise to a distinct working class that faced harsh labor conditions while a new wealthy capitalist class emerged. This led to heightened tensions as workers began organizing for better wages and working conditions, ultimately giving birth to labor movements. The stark contrast between wealth and poverty during this period highlighted systemic inequalities, fueling further conflict and demands for change within society.
• Evaluate how Marxist criticism interprets texts concerning class struggle and its implications for understanding societal issues.
  • Marxist criticism interprets texts by focusing on how they reflect and critique class struggles within society. It examines characters' relationships to power and wealth, exploring themes of oppression, exploitation, and resistance. By analyzing literature through this lens, one gains insight into how narratives reveal underlying class conflicts that shape societal structures. This approach encourages readers to recognize historical context while prompting discussions on contemporary issues related to class inequality and social justice.

Related terms

Proletariat: The working class or laborers who do not own the means of production and must sell their labor to survive.

Bourgeoisie: The capitalist class that owns the means of production and exploits the labor of the proletariat for profit.

Dialectical Materialism: A Marxist framework that emphasizes the importance of material conditions and class relations in shaping history and societal changes through contradictions and their resolutions.