George Gissing 
The Unclassed 

George Gissing’s novel ‘The Unclassed’ is a captivating exploration of social class, poverty, and the struggles of the working-class in Victorian England. Written in a realistic style with attention to detail, Gissing provides a raw and honest portrayal of the harsh realities faced by those on the margins of society. The narrative delves into the lives of characters who are ‘unclassed’ – those who do not fit neatly into the rigid class structure of the time. Gissing’s novel is a poignant commentary on the societal injustices and inequalities of the era, offering a thought-provoking glimpse into the lives of the forgotten and unprivileged. ‘The Unclassed’ is a significant work of literature that showcases Gissing’s keen observations and deep empathy for the downtrodden. George Gissing, a prolific Victorian novelist, drew inspiration from his own experiences of poverty and social isolation to craft a novel that remains relevant and impactful to this day. His background as a struggling writer allowed him to empathize with his characters, infusing the narrative with a sense of authenticity and pathos. I highly recommend ‘The Unclassed’ to readers interested in exploring the complexities of social class and the human experience in Victorian England, offering profound insights into the struggles and triumphs of those society often overlooks.