Upper-class pretensions

Definition

Upper-class pretensions refer to the attitudes, behaviors, and cultural practices that reflect an inflated sense of superiority and social status typically associated with the upper class. These pretensions often manifest in a desire to maintain a facade of elegance, sophistication, and refinement, regardless of actual wealth or social standing. They can serve as a critical commentary on social hierarchies and the superficial values of high society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Upper-class pretensions are commonly explored in Restoration drama as a means to critique the superficiality of high society.
2. Characters in comedies of manners often embody upper-class pretensions through their exaggerated behaviors and dialogue, highlighting their attempts to appear more refined than they truly are.
3. The tension between genuine virtue and upper-class pretensions can lead to comedic misunderstandings and conflicts within the narrative.
4. These pretensions often serve as a vehicle for authors to expose hypocrisy and challenge societal norms related to class and status.
5. Restoration comedies frequently use wit and satire to undermine the legitimacy of upper-class pretensions, revealing their ridiculousness to the audience.

Review Questions

• How do upper-class pretensions serve as a critique of social hierarchies in Restoration drama?
  • Upper-class pretensions act as a lens through which Restoration drama critiques the established social hierarchies. By portraying characters who display exaggerated behaviors associated with high status, playwrights reveal the absurdity and hypocrisy underlying the pursuit of social superiority. These characters often fail to live up to their pretensions, which serves to expose the flaws within upper-class society and invites audiences to question the validity of such status.
• Discuss how characters exhibiting upper-class pretensions contribute to comedic elements in comedies of manners.
  • Characters that exhibit upper-class pretensions add significant comedic value to comedies of manners by creating situations ripe for misunderstanding and conflict. Their attempts to appear sophisticated often lead to humorous scenarios where their true nature is revealed. This contrast between their self-image and reality not only entertains but also serves to critique their superficial values, making audiences laugh while also reflecting on serious societal issues.
• Evaluate the role of satire in addressing upper-class pretensions within Restoration drama and its impact on contemporary views of class distinction.
  • Satire plays a crucial role in addressing upper-class pretensions by using humor and irony to expose the absurdities of social norms related to class distinction. In Restoration drama, this satirical approach highlights the flaws and contradictions in the behaviors of the elite, prompting audiences to reconsider their views on social status. The impact of this satire extends beyond its time, as it encourages ongoing discussions about class disparity and privilege in contemporary society, reminding us that the pursuit of status often leads to empty posturing.

Related terms

Social Climbing: The act of attempting to improve one's social status, often by associating with or adopting the behaviors of those in higher social classes.

Aristocracy: A class of people holding exceptional rank and privileges, often inherited, characterized by wealth, land ownership, and influence in governance.

Satire: A literary technique used to criticize and mock societal norms, behaviors, or individuals, often to provoke thought or bring about change.