Imagining the Middle Class

This insightful exploration redefines the understanding of middle class identity during the Industrial Revolution in Britain, challenging established narratives and offering new perspectives.

In Imagining the Middle Class, the author delves into the historical roots of the perception that modern society revolves around a 'middle class', particularly as it emerged during the Industrial Revolution in Britain. This work engages with the burgeoning field of middle class studies, questioning its core assumptions and proposing innovative methodologies and viewpoints. The text examines how British citizens began to perceive their society as predominantly middle class, offering a fresh perspective that diverges from conventional historical narratives.

Professor Wahrman posits that the key to understanding the evolution of societal perceptions lies not in the expected transformations brought about by industrialization, which is often credited with the rise of the middle class, but rather in the shifting political landscapes of the time. By conducting a meticulous analysis of a wide range of historical sources, the author presents a compelling argument that intertwines social realities with political discourse and the language of class.

Through comparative insights involving France and America, Imagining the Middle Class provides a sophisticated framework for understanding the complex interactions between social structures, political dynamics, and class terminology. This book offers a radical reinterpretation of political and social concepts during a transformative period in British history, inviting readers to reconsider the foundations of middle class identity and its implications for contemporary society.