Social Classes in Maria

I think the bond between Maria and Jemima is an important notion in this novel. Obviously their social classes are much different. This was written in a time when social class was much more important than it is today. Maria is of more elevated rank than Jemima, and yet the two form a strong friendship based on their mutual hardships. Both women have endured horrendous events in their lives, which allows them to connect in a way they normally would not be able to because of their difference in social classes. Mary Wollstonecraft is credited with opening up a commonality between women of all social classes. This novel is a great example of her ability. Maria and Jemima show that no matter a woman's social standing, hardships exist. A woman of high social standing can feel the same way as a woman of low social standing.