Themes and message

The main themes of the short story “England versus England” by Doris Lessing are class differences and class identity in British society. The author’s intention is to show that class differences can become a burden for a working-class person who lives among the middle class and can affect one’s psyche. Consequently, the outer conflict between social classes is integrated at an individual level and leads to an inner psychological conflict. These themes are further enhanced by motifs like guilt and frustration.

Class differences

The theme of class differences or conflicts is explored in the short story from the perspective of several characters, but mostly from the point of view of Charlie, the main character. Charlie is the son of a working-class family, and he is studying at Oxford on a scholarship. Consequently, he has access to both worlds, or, as the title puts it, to England versus England.

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Class identity

The theme of class identity is mostly explored in the short story through the protagonist’s inner conflict. Given that Charlie is part of both worlds – the middle class and the working class England – yet does no longer fully belong to either of them, he is in a dilemma.

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