Class struggle

Definition

Class struggle refers to the conflict between different classes in society, particularly between the working class and the ruling class, over issues such as wealth, power, and social justice. This concept highlights how economic disparities can lead to tension and confrontation, influencing social change and literature's exploration of these themes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Class struggle is often depicted in literature as a central theme, showcasing the fight for justice and equity among characters from different social backgrounds.
2. Marxist theory emphasizes that class struggle is a driving force behind historical change and development, suggesting that social conflicts arise from economic inequalities.
3. In novels, class struggle can manifest through character relationships, societal tensions, and conflicts that reflect real-world issues of class disparity.
4. The outcomes of class struggles in literature often highlight moral dilemmas, personal sacrifices, and the quest for identity amid societal pressures.
5. Notable literary works often focus on the triumphs and failures of individuals navigating their place within a class-divided society, illustrating the human experience within these broader conflicts.

Review Questions

• How does class struggle influence character development in novels?
  • Class struggle shapes character development by forcing individuals to confront their societal roles and challenges. Characters from lower socioeconomic backgrounds often strive for upward mobility while facing obstacles imposed by the ruling class. This conflict can lead to growth or transformation as they navigate their identities amidst pressures from both society and their personal aspirations.
• Discuss how authors use class struggle as a thematic device to comment on social issues within their narratives.
  • Authors utilize class struggle as a thematic device to critique societal norms and highlight inequalities. By portraying the lives of characters from varying classes, writers can expose systemic injustices and evoke empathy in readers. Through conflicts stemming from economic disparities, these narratives encourage readers to reflect on contemporary issues related to power dynamics and social justice.
• Evaluate the role of class struggle in shaping the historical context of literary movements throughout time.
  • Class struggle has played a significant role in shaping literary movements by reflecting societal changes and responding to economic conditions. For example, realism emerged as a response to industrialization and class disparities, capturing the struggles of everyday life. As literature evolved, movements like modernism incorporated themes of alienation stemming from class conflicts, illustrating how literature serves not only as an artistic expression but also as a critique of historical circumstances surrounding class dynamics.

Related terms

Proletariat: The working class, especially in a capitalist society, who do not own the means of production and must sell their labor to survive.

Bourgeoisie: The capitalist class that owns the means of production and is characterized by its control over wealth and resources.

Socialism: A political and economic system where the means of production are owned or regulated by the community as a whole, aiming for equality and reducing class struggle.