The Rape of the Lock as a Social Satire. 

Answer

Consider “The Rape of the Lock” as a social satire. 

Social satire predominates in the work of Alexander Pope (1688-1744). It is a way to criticize and condemn society for its evils. “The Rape of the Lock” (1712) is a masterpiece of satire on the aristocracy of that age. The poet has a keen observation of the moral corruption prevailing in society. In the poem, Pope satirizes young girls and boys. He mocks aristocratic women and men and their activities. He also criticizes husbands, wives, judges, and politicians.

Trivial Concerns of the Upper Class: Pope satirizes the trivial concerns of the aristocracy. He turns a small haircutting event into a big, epic drama. From the start, he sets a tone for satire. He says, 

What mighty contests rise from trivial things.

Pope shows that the upper class is concerned with petty and insignificant matters. They blow these matters out of proportion. They act as if they are serious life-and-death situations. This focus on trivial things reflects the shallowness of their lives and priorities.

Mocking Vanity and Beauty: The poem pokes fun at the excessive concern with beauty and appearance. Belinda is obsessed with her looks. Her preparation for the day is described as a sacred ritual.

…First, rob’d in White, the Nymph intent adores 

With Head uncover’d, the cosmetic Pow’rs.

Pope compares Belinda’s dressing routine to a religious ceremony. It highlights the ridiculousness of her vanity and the importance society places on physical beauty.

The Role of Women in Society: Pope’s poem critiques the limited roles available to women in the aristocracy. He focuses on their beauty and reputation. Women like Belinda are judged by their appearance. Any loss of beauty, like the cutting of her lock, is seen as a major blow to their social standing. Thalestris, another character, worries that Belinda’s reputation will be damaged: 

Already hear the horrid things they say.

This shows the pressure on women always to maintain a