Class struggle

Definition

Class struggle refers to the ongoing conflict between different social classes, primarily the working class (proletariat) and the ruling class (bourgeoisie), over resources, power, and economic interests. This concept highlights how economic inequalities shape society and influence cultural narratives, often leading to tensions and social change. Understanding class struggle is crucial in analyzing how literature reflects the lived experiences of characters across various social strata and critiques systemic oppression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Class struggle is a central theme in many Victorian novels, reflecting the stark contrasts between wealth and poverty during that era.
2. The Brontë sisters often portrayed characters grappling with class tensions, emphasizing how social status affected personal relationships and individual aspirations.
3. Charles Dickens's works frequently highlight the plight of the poor and critique the indifference of the wealthy, illustrating the harsh realities of class struggle.
4. In realist and naturalist theater, class struggle serves as a backdrop for character motivations and conflicts, revealing the impact of socio-economic conditions on human behavior.
5. Science fiction often uses class struggle to comment on contemporary issues, imagining future societies shaped by economic disparities and social injustice.

Review Questions

• How do Victorian novels illustrate the concept of class struggle through their characters and plotlines?
  • Victorian novels vividly portray class struggle by showcasing characters from various social backgrounds. Authors like Charles Dickens often depicted the stark divide between the affluent bourgeoisie and the struggling proletariat, using narratives to highlight social injustices. These novels reveal how class status influences characters' opportunities, relationships, and moral dilemmas, serving as a critique of societal norms that perpetuate inequality.
• In what ways do the Brontë sisters address issues of class struggle in their works, and what implications does this have for their characters' development?
  • The Brontë sisters effectively address class struggle by creating complex characters who navigate societal expectations tied to their social status. For instance, in 'Jane Eyre,' Jane's journey reflects her resistance against the constraints imposed by her lower-class status while seeking love and respect in a class-conscious society. This exploration of class dynamics allows for profound character development, as their struggles highlight themes of independence, moral integrity, and personal growth amidst societal limitations.
• Analyze how realist and naturalist theater reflects the idea of class struggle and its effects on individuals in society.
  • Realist and naturalist theater captures the essence of class struggle by presenting characters whose lives are deeply influenced by their socio-economic conditions. Playwrights like Henrik Ibsen focused on the struggles faced by individuals within rigid social hierarchies, illustrating how economic hardship shapes their choices and relationships. The portrayal of raw human experiences against a backdrop of systemic inequality emphasizes the inevitability of conflict arising from class distinctions, ultimately urging audiences to confront the realities of social injustice and consider potential pathways for change.

Related terms

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

Bourgeoisie: The middle and upper classes who own the means of production and hold economic power in society.

Social Mobility: The ability for individuals or groups to move within a social hierarchy, often influenced by education, income, and occupation.