William Sewell Social Class

William Sewell invokes the heavenly will in defense of the current social order, arguing that God created within mankind two classes: a “superior class,” on whom he bestowed the power to “rule and govern,” and a class “to be ruled and governed.” The “freedom” of the English constitution does nothing to disrupt the “division of mankind which God himself has made”; England therefore embodies the true will of God in its current state, and the wealthy boys with whom he has been charged can be certain that their “place is not intended for any others.” This is partly owing to the positions of their fathers, who have “liberal, respected professions and occupations.” Those in exalted echelons can fulfill their burdensome roles if they “exercise

The overlooked members of society rely on those who have the privilege of pure knowledge “guiding” them, and guidance consistently leads to their “benefit.” The use of the word “influenc[e]” implies that the ignorant do not always gladly accept the help of their superiors, forcing selfless benefactors to proactively use subtle tactics to indoctrinate their targets without any backlash from the volatile plebeians. Victorian values, which dominated in Sewell’s day, surface in his speech firstly in the delight that he takes in assuming the burden of educating godless ruffians; he takes pride in

The power and knowledge that Pip’s uncle, Mr. Pumblechook has as “a well-to-do corn-chandler” is explained by Sewell’s classification of Victorians and the responsibilities that Sewell delivers upon the higher class (Dickens 60). Mr. Pumblechook, after accidentally consuming tar, acts like he “was omnipotent in that kitchen,...imperiously waved it all away with his hand, and asked for hot gin-and-water” (65). Mr. Pumblechook’s superiority is even apparent to a soldier who is not even familiar with the Pumblechook’s status. The sergeant, after receiving wine from Mrs. Joe, tells Mr. Pumblechook, “I suspect that stuff’s of your providing…[b]ecause...you’re a man who knows what’s what” (69). Without knowing the special role that class entails, the sergeant’s statement is enigmatic. Sewell’s writing also brings the reader past the outer layers of each character's beliefs and takes the reader to the core of their thinking, thus providing a deeper understanding of each character and his or her motivations. The characters in Great Expectations exhibit intense Victorianism. Pip’s sister is responsible for the adage “Ask no questions, and you’ll be told no lies” (50). This dislike of questioning reveals that she accepts the status quo and does not seek to