A Poor Gentleman

"A Poor Gentleman" by Mrs. Oliphant is a story set in the late 1800s, which examines the vast differences between two families who share the same last name, Penton. We are introduced to the wealthy Sir Walter Penton and his daughter, Alicia who live a life of luxury shadowed by sadness. Contrasting them is Edward Penton, who struggles with poverty at Penton Hook trying to care for his large family in their run-down home. The story looks at how wealth, social class, and family struggles affect each family, as well as the feelings of inadequacy that arise, such as those felt by Alicia's husband, Russell.