David's life has a series of ups and downs. At first he is a treasured son. Then he becomes a hated stepson. He has various experiences as a student, including a violent and tedious time at Salem House. David must also take on adult responsibilities as a child. At one point he is a ten-year-old child laborer trying desperately to make ends meet. He spends a period of time being homeless, trekking through the English countryside. Finally, his great aunt, Miss Betsey, helps him reestablish a carefree childhood, by taking him in to her home.
David's descriptions of the loneliness and poverty that he suffered as a child give strong...
Social Class
Social status and class are ubiquitous as issues throughout the novel. In fact, the novel can be viewed in large measure as a commentary on social status and class-based wealth.
Favoritism and undeserved respect are shown constantly for those of a higher class. For example, in the case of Steerforth, it is obvious that he is treated much better than David and the other students at Salem House. Furthermore, he is highly regarded by David and even by Mr. Peggotty and Ham, both of whom are of a lower class, when in fact Steerforth is the one who should be respecting them for their moral character. He constantly puts down those below him in status, such as Mr. Mell and Ham once he gets engaged to Little Em'ly.
The striving for social status can also be seen through David's and Dora's courtship and marriage. David's first thought after hearing of Miss Betsey's financial downfall is shame at being poor, and Dora cries at the thought of David being poor and of having to do her own housework. David is constantly striving to make money so that he can live and provide Dora with a life of wealth. Little Em'ly also expresses unhappiness at her low social status and longs to be a "lady," which is why she runs off with Steerforth in the first place.
True Happiness
Many times throughout the novel, the search for true happiness takes prominence. The narrator notes in particular the innocent joy David had as a child before his mother married Mr. Murdstone. The plot in general focuses on David's search for true happiness, and it is up to the reader to judge whether or not he has succeeded.