Representation of Social Inequality in Oliver Goldsmith's Works

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21096595

Abstract

The eighteenth century was a period of noteworthy social, economic and political revolution in England. These changes brought prosperity to some segments of society while at the same time increasing poverty, dislocation and social inequality among others. Oliver Goldsmith, one of the most notable literary figures of the period appeared as a strong observer of these social realities. Through his poetry, fiction and drama Goldsmith represented the hardships of the poor section of the society and criticized economic mistreatment and exposed the artificial differences created by class hierarchy. His major works, including The Deserted Village, The Vicar of Wakefield and She Stoops to Conquer offer valued insights into the nature and consequences of social inequality in eighteenth-century Britain. This paper examines Goldsmith's representation of social inequality, analyzing his treatment of class separations, economic injustice, rural dislocation, social mobility, and moral exploitation. The study further argues that Goldsmith's evaluation of social inequality remains appropriate in contemporary society where issues of economic discrepancy and social elimination continue to challenge human welfare.

Keywords: Oliver Goldsmith, Social Inequality, Social Realism, Class Distinction, Economic Disparity, Humanism, Eighteenth-Century Literature.