3.36
"Kipps" by H.G. Wells is a classic novel that explores themes of social class and mobility in early 20th century England. The protagonist, Arthur "Kipps" Kipps, is a young man who is raised in a working-class family but unexpectedly inherits a large sum of money, which allows him to move up in society. The novel follows Kipps as he navigates his newfound wealth and the social expectations that come with it. He attends a prestigious school, where he struggles to fit in with his wealthy classmates, and falls in love with a woman who is far above his social station. Kipps's struggles to balance his old life with his new one, and his efforts to reconcile his working-class values with the values of the upper class, are at the heart of the novel. Wells's portrayal of the British class system is both nuanced and critical. He exposes the absurdity and hypocrisy of the upper class, while also acknowledging the appeal of the wealth and status that it confers. At the same time, he celebrates the virtues of the working class, such as hard work, loyalty, and honesty. "Kipps" is also a coming-of-age story, as Kipps learns to navigate the complexities of adulthood and to find his place in the world. Through his struggles, Kipps learns the value of self-reliance and the importance of staying true to oneself. Overall, "Kipps" is a thought-provoking and engaging novel that offers a unique perspective on social class and mobility in early 20th century England. Its themes and characters continue to resonate with readers today, making it a classic worth reading...
H.G. Wells
The Time Machine
If you enjoyed 'Kipps' by H.G. Wells, you might like to explore more of his work. 'The Time Machine' is a classic science fiction novel that showcases Wells' ability to combine social commentary with imaginative storytelling.
Learn MoreOscar Wilde
The Picture of Dorian Gray
If you enjoyed the social commentary in 'Kipps', you might appreciate the satire and wit of Oscar Wilde in 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'. This novel explores themes of beauty, morality, and the corrupting influence of society.
Learn MoreCharles Dickens
Great Expectations
'Kipps' was influenced by the works of Charles Dickens, and 'Great Expectations' is one of his most famous novels. This coming-of-age story follows the life of Pip, a young boy who dreams of rising above his humble origins.
Learn MoreCharles Dickens
David Copperfield
Another classic novel by Charles Dickens, 'David Copperfield' is a sprawling tale of a young boy's journey to adulthood. Like 'Kipps', this novel explores themes of class, social mobility, and the struggle to find one's place in the world.
Learn MoreE.M. Forster
Howards End
If you enjoyed the social commentary in 'Kipps', you might appreciate the nuanced exploration of class and society in 'Howards End'. This novel follows the lives of three families in early 20th century England.
Learn MoreVirginia Woolf
Mrs. Dalloway
'Mrs. Dalloway' is a modernist novel that explores the inner lives of its characters in a way that is reminiscent of 'Kipps'. This novel follows a day in the life of Clarissa Dalloway as she prepares for a party in post-World War I London.
Learn MoreVirginia Woolf
To the Lighthouse
Another modernist novel by Virginia Woolf, 'To the Lighthouse' explores the complexities of family dynamics and the passage of time. Like 'Kipps', this novel invites the reader to consider the ways in which society shapes our identities.
Learn MoreEdith Wharton
The Age of Innocence
If you enjoyed the exploration of social class in 'Kipps', you might appreciate the nuanced portrayal of high society in 'The Age of Innocence'. This novel follows the story of Newland Archer, a wealthy lawyer who is engaged to the innocent May Welland.
Learn MoreEdith Wharton
The House of Mirth
Another novel by Edith Wharton, 'The House of Mirth' explores the world of New York high society in the late 19th century. Like 'Kipps', this novel follows the story of a young woman who is struggling to find her place in the world.
Learn MoreThomas Hardy
Jude the Obscure
If you enjoyed the exploration of class and social mobility in 'Kipps', you might appreciate the bleak portrayal of society in 'Jude the Obscure'. This novel follows the story of Jude Fawley, a working-class man who dreams of becoming a scholar.
Learn MoreThomas Hardy
Tess of the D'Urbervilles
Another classic novel by Thomas Hardy, 'Tess of the d'Urbervilles' explores the themes of class, gender, and morality. Like 'Kipps', this novel follows the story of a young woman who is struggling to find her place in the world.
Learn More