Either 13 Stanhope: No pâté de foie gras? Mason: No, sir - Edexcel - GCSE English Literature - Question 13 - 2020 - Paper 1

In the play Journey's End by R.C. Sherriff, social class is depicted through the interactions and characteristics of the officers and men in the trenches during World War I.

Social Class Distinction

The characters are presented to highlight the contrasts between upper-class officers, like Stanhope, and the working-class soldiers, such as Trotter and Mason. For example, Stanhope's formal use of surnames when addressing other officers, like 'Raleigh,' maintains the hierarchal structure expected in a military context.

Use of Language

Moreover, the language and dialogue reflect social class dynamics. Stanhope, being of higher social standing, often speaks in a commanding tone, while characters like Mason use more colloquial language, showcasing their working-class roots and less formal education.

Contextual Relations

The context of the play aligns particularly well with the realities of early 20th-century Britain, where class divisions were pronounced. Trotter’s rise to second-in-command exemplifies how class barriers could momentarily dissolve during crises, but also underscores the limited opportunities for men of lower social classes to ascend in rank.

Humor and Class

Additionally, the use of humor, especially through characters like Mason, adds layers to the portrayal of social class. This humor often lightens the bleak circumstances, yet it also reveals the camaraderie that can exist across class divides while still highlighting their differences.

These elements culminate in a rich exploration of social class, revealing both the inherent tensions and the uneasy relationships formed in the harrowing context of war.