Class conflict

Definition

Class conflict refers to the tensions and struggles between different social classes, particularly between the bourgeoisie (the middle and upper classes) and the proletariat (the working class). This concept highlights the economic and social disparities that can lead to power struggles, often reflected in literature and art. It plays a significant role in exploring themes of social inequality and moral dilemmas across various forms of artistic expression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Class conflict emerged as a significant theme during the Restoration period, reflecting the changing social dynamics after the English Civil War and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy.
2. Playwrights began incorporating issues of class struggle into their works, highlighting the tension between aristocratic values and the rising influence of the bourgeoisie.
3. John Dryden's works often examined moral complexities arising from class differences, paving the way for modern literary criticism that scrutinized social hierarchies.
4. Alexander Pope's satirical writings reflected societal concerns regarding class distinctions, revealing how class conflict informed public discourse during the early eighteenth century.
5. George Lillo's 'The London Merchant' exemplified bourgeois tragedy, showcasing how class conflict affected individual lives and moral choices, appealing to middle-class audiences.

Review Questions

• How does class conflict manifest in the works of playwrights during the Restoration period?
  • During the Restoration period, class conflict is vividly illustrated through the plays that showcase the tensions between the aristocracy and the emerging bourgeoisie. Playwrights used characters and plots that highlight the struggles for power, status, and moral authority, often portraying characters from different classes interacting in ways that expose societal inequalities. These interactions not only entertained but also provoked discussions about social structures, paving the way for greater awareness of class issues.
• Discuss how John Dryden and Alexander Pope contribute to the understanding of class conflict through their literary criticism.
  • John Dryden and Alexander Pope played crucial roles in shaping modern literary criticism by addressing themes of class conflict in their works. Dryden's analysis often included moral considerations regarding social hierarchies, while Pope's satirical approach highlighted societal flaws stemming from class disparities. Their critical perspectives provided a framework for understanding how literature could reflect and challenge existing class structures, influencing readers to reconsider their views on social inequality.
• Evaluate the significance of George Lillo's 'The London Merchant' in illustrating class conflict and its impact on societal views during its time.
  • 'The London Merchant' serves as a pivotal example of how class conflict is depicted through the lens of bourgeois tragedy. By focusing on a middle-class protagonist who faces moral dilemmas influenced by social pressures, Lillo's play resonates with audiences experiencing similar struggles in their lives. The play not only entertains but also prompts viewers to confront issues of responsibility, ethics, and social mobility within their own contexts, making it a critical work that reflects broader societal concerns about class dynamics during its era.

Related terms

Bourgeoisie: The social class that owns the means of production and is typically associated with wealth and capital in capitalist societies.

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

Social Mobility: The ability for individuals or families to move up or down the social hierarchy, which can be influenced by factors such as education, economic opportunities, and class structures.