Class struggle

Definition

Class struggle refers to the ongoing conflict between different classes in society, primarily between the bourgeoisie (capitalist class) and the proletariat (working class). This concept highlights the tensions and inequalities that arise from economic disparities and power dynamics, leading to social and political change. In realism and naturalism, this struggle is often depicted through characters and narratives that reflect the harsh realities of life for those in lower socio-economic positions, revealing their challenges and desires for change.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ibsen's plays often illustrate the struggles of individuals against societal norms, highlighting how class distinctions impact personal relationships and ambitions.
2. Chekhov's work reflects class struggle through character interactions, showcasing the emotional and existential dilemmas faced by those in different social classes.
3. Strindberg's writings delve into the psychological aspects of class struggle, revealing how social status influences personal identity and conflict.
4. Realism as a movement focused on depicting everyday life, often bringing class issues to the forefront in a way that resonated with contemporary audiences.
5. Class struggle themes are prevalent in the portrayal of female characters, emphasizing their societal positions and aspirations within rigid class structures.

Review Questions

• How do Ibsen's characters embody the concept of class struggle in their personal conflicts?
  • Ibsen's characters often face internal and external conflicts that are deeply rooted in their social status. For instance, in 'A Doll's House', Nora grapples with her role as a wife confined to domestic duties while longing for independence. This tension highlights not only her personal struggle but also reflects the larger societal expectations placed on women and lower classes during that time. By portraying these conflicts, Ibsen reveals how class distinctions affect individual choices and relationships.
• In what ways do Chekhov’s stories depict the impacts of class struggle on human relationships?
  • Chekhov’s stories frequently explore the complexities of human relationships against the backdrop of class struggle. He portrays characters from various social standings interacting with one another, showcasing how their differing backgrounds shape their motivations and desires. These interactions often reveal underlying tensions, such as resentment or aspiration, illustrating how class disparities influence emotional connections and create barriers to understanding among people.
• Analyze how Strindberg’s exploration of class struggle contributes to our understanding of societal dynamics in his works.
  • Strindberg’s exploration of class struggle provides a deep insight into the societal dynamics of his time by focusing on the psychological and social conflicts arising from class differences. His plays often depict characters caught in intense emotional battles influenced by their social status, illustrating how economic conditions can dictate personal relationships and identity. Through this lens, Strindberg critiques not only individual characters but also the broader socio-economic systems at play, encouraging audiences to reflect on the nature of power and its implications in society.

Related terms

Bourgeoisie: The capitalist class that owns most of society's wealth and means of production, often contrasted with the working class.

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

Naturalism:

A literary movement that suggests individuals are shaped by their environment, heredity, and social conditions, often portraying a deterministic view of human behavior.