Forster, E. M.: 1879-1970

Howards End, 1910 - Thematic Parallels: Class Conflict

Forster, E. M.: Howards End, 1910
The novel centers on social conventions, class conflict, and relationships in early 20th century England.
The following books are thematically similar. They lend themselves well to being read in groups, compared with one another, or used to teach a similar topic over an extended period with a class:
- Smith, Zadie: On Beauty, 2005, ~440pp
  The novel centers on family, identity, race, class, politics, and aesthetics—especially as they intersect in the lives of two academic families.
  Both novels revolve around ideological and personal clashes between two families of different worldviews, used as a way to explore broader societal and cultural divides. Both novels critique societal structures and privilege, with "On Beauty" expanding the focus to include race and immigration in a modern context.
- Lahiri, Jhumpa: The Namesake, 2003, ~290pp
  The central topic of the novel is identity—particularly the struggle of cultural identity and personal self-discovery in the context of immigration and generational differences.
  Both texts depict the tension between old values and new ways of life, and how individuals either bridge or fail to bridge those gaps. They explore relationships that cross social or cultural boundaries, often revealing both the possibilities and limits of such connections. At their core, both novels urge the reader to look past superficial barriers (race, class, culture) and prioritize empathy, understanding, and human connection.
- MacLaverty, Bernard: Lamb, 1980, ~150pp
  This is a novel dealing with complex relationships and identity, often reflective and character-driven.
  Both narratives critique how those in power often act without accountability or empathy, especially toward the vulnerable They show how good intentions are not always enough to overcome entrenched systems or fate.
- Morrison, Toni: The Bluest Eye, 1985, ~240pp
  This novel investigates societal pressures and family dynamics.
  Both novels depict characters who are emotionally or socially alienated—Pecola from both Black and white communities, and Leonard Bast from the upper-class society he admires but cannot access. They show how people cling to values or appearances that ultimately blind them to human suffering—be it Pauline's obsession with whiteness or Henry Wilcox’s rigid moralism.
List of general discussion questions on Class Conflict (pdf)
List of essay prompts on Class Conflict (pdf)