Hard Times

 Hello,

This blog is based upon Thinking activity. 

▶ Discuss the theme of 'Utilitarianism' with illustrations from the novel Hard Times and other themes. 

           Utilitarianism in the context of the novel "Hard Times" by Charles Dickens refers to the philosophical and societal beliefs prevalent during the Victorian era, emphasizing utility and practicality over emotion and imagination. 

          Utilitarianism is the idea that the right thing to do is the thing that will make the most people happy. In Hard Times, Dickens shows us that utilitarianism can have negative consequences when it is taken to its extreme. When people are valued only for their usefulness, they are treated like objects rather than human beings.

           The novel Hard Times starts with the scene of a schoolroom. Here children are made to stuff their minds with facts and logic. There are no Imaginations and emotions. 

          Charles Dickens connives a theme of utilitarianism, along with education and industrialization. Utilitarianism is the belief that something is morally right if it helps a majority of people. It is a principle involving nothing but facts and leaves no room for creativity or imagination.

       Thomas Gradgrind in "Hard Times" believes that focusing on facts, numbers, and practical things is the most important. He raises his children to think this way too, emphasizing productivity and efficiency while ignoring emotions and creativity. It's like saying being practical and useful to society matters most, even if it means suppressing feelings and personal happiness.

       Dickens uses Cecelia Jupe, daughter of a circus clown, who is the complete opposite of Thomas Gradgrind to provide a great contrast of a utilitarian belief.

       Josiah Bounderby is another prime example of utilitarianism. He is one of the wealthiest people in Coketown; owning a bank and a factory, but is not really a likable person. His utilitarian philosophy is similar to Gradgrinds in the sense that factuality is the single most important virtue that one could possess. Mr. Bounderby maintained throughout the story his utilitarian views, which basically stated that nothing else is important besides profit. 

       Dickens also added circus people as a contrast to the utilitarian approach to life. The circus people could be called the total opposite of utilitarianism.

        The circus people are simple, open-minded human beings whose goal in life is to make people laugh. Dickens portrays them as a step up from the “Hands” but still close to the bottom in the social structure. These people are hated by Gradgrind, Bounderby and other utilitarians because they represent everything that is shunned in utilitarianism such as love, imagination, and humor.

        The people that did not fall victim to the utilitarian trap were able to live their lives happily and freely, able to love, laugh, and use their imagination; which is the way life ought to be lived.  

       Dickens’ ultimate message is to show the value of imagination, art, and human connection in a place dominated by fact and rationality. When Gradgrind’s children, Louisa and Tom face hardship because they followed their father’s utilitarian thinking, it is ultimately Sissy who will be the one who pilots change in the imaginary of the Gradgrinds. 

➡Other themes of the novel Hard times 

   ● Fact vs. Fancy

        Fact vs. fantasy" in "Hard Times" means showing the difference between relying on realistic, practical information (facts) versus imaginative or unrealistic ideas (fantasy). It's about understanding the importance of reality and practicality in life.

       The character Thomas Gradgrind embodies the theme of fact vs. fantasy. He's focused on facts and logic, promoting a practical, no-nonsense approach to life. On the other hand, Sissy Jupe represents fantasy and imagination, coming from a circus background where creativity and imagination are valued. 

   ● Individualism Vs Community 

      Individualism is like when people are so focused on their own success, money, or ideas that they forget about others. Characters like Mr. Gradgrind and Mr. Bounderby are all about making money and advancing themselves, often at the expense of others  Mr. Gradgrind focusing only on facts and profit. On the other hand, community is about caring for everyone, like how Sissy Jupe and others show compassion and help each other, thinking beyond just their own need. when Stephen Blackpool, a poor worker, faces difficulties, and his friends and fellow workers try to support him.

       The Novel shows us that a good society needs a balance.While it's essential to think about ourselves and succeed individually, we should also care for others and work together for the benefit of everyone. Too much focus on just oneself can lead to problems.

 ● Social Injustice and Class Struggles

      In "Hard Times," social injustice and class struggles shows that some people are treated unfairly or poorly because of where they come from or how much money they have.

      in the story, there are two main classes of people: the rich factory owners like Mr. Bounderby and the poor workers like Stephen Blackpool. The rich have power and money, and they often make life difficult for the poor. Stephen Blackpool, a worker, represents the struggles of the lower class. He works hard but is trapped in a difficult life because of his low position and the unfair system. 

       Tom Gradgrind, the son of Mr. Thomas Gradgrind, is a key character who turns to a life of crime. He steal money from the bank where he works and frames an innocent man, Stephen Blackpool, for the theft.

● Feminism 

     Feminism in "Hard Times" is about showing that women should have the same rights and opportunities as men. In the book, characters like Louisa face limits on their choices and roles because they're female.  Louisa is well educated and she make her Life's decision by herself but she cannot do. She is depending on her Father and brother. She did not make her own decision. She follows what her father and brother tells. 

Thank you.