Social mobility

Definition

Social mobility refers to the ability of individuals or groups to move within a social hierarchy, which can occur upward or downward. This concept is particularly significant in literature, as it often reflects societal structures and the changing dynamics of class and opportunity, especially during periods of transformation like the early development of the English novel.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The rise of the English novel in the 18th century mirrored the changes in social mobility, with characters often reflecting the aspirations and struggles of their respective classes.
2. Authors like Daniel Defoe and Samuel Richardson explored themes of self-made individuals who challenged traditional social hierarchies.
3. Novels during this period often featured protagonists who experienced shifts in their social status, highlighting the potential for upward mobility despite societal constraints.
4. The concept of social mobility was intertwined with the burgeoning capitalist economy, where wealth could sometimes be acquired through entrepreneurship rather than inherited privilege.
5. Literature served as a reflection of societal attitudes towards class, often critiquing or celebrating the rise of the 'new money' class against established aristocracy.

Review Questions

• How does social mobility influence character development in early English novels?
  • In early English novels, social mobility greatly influences character development by presenting protagonists who strive to rise above their circumstances. These characters often face significant challenges and societal barriers that reflect real-life struggles for upward mobility. The narrative arcs typically emphasize their growth, aspirations, and the moral implications of their journeys, allowing readers to engage with themes of ambition, class struggle, and identity.
• Evaluate how the theme of social mobility is portrayed in the works of prominent early novelists like Defoe or Richardson.
  • In the works of early novelists like Defoe and Richardson, social mobility is portrayed as both a possibility and a challenge. For example, in 'Robinson Crusoe,' Defoe illustrates how resourcefulness and determination can lead to success regardless of one's initial status. Similarly, Richardson’s 'Pamela' showcases a servant's rise to gentry through virtue and moral integrity. These narratives not only reflect the potential for change but also critique societal norms that restrict movement between classes.
• Analyze the implications of social mobility within the context of the emerging capitalist society depicted in early English novels.
  • The implications of social mobility in early English novels are deeply intertwined with the emerging capitalist society. As characters navigate their ambitions against rigid class structures, these stories reveal the tension between old aristocratic values and new economic realities. This shift allowed individuals to redefine their identities and seek success based on merit rather than lineage. The novels critique existing power dynamics while simultaneously celebrating the potential for personal agency and reformation within a rapidly changing social landscape.

Related terms

class structure: The organization of society into hierarchical categories based on factors such as wealth, occupation, and education.

meritocracy: A system in which individuals succeed based on their abilities and talents rather than their social class or background.

narrative arc: The chronological construction of plot in a story, which often includes character development and themes of change, such as social ascent or descent.