Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell

How does the English class system of the 19th century shape the choices, arcs, and relationships of the major characters in the novel?

Lady Pole, Stephen Black, Vinculus, and Jonathan Strange are all labeled “mad” at one time or another. Compare and contrast what “madness” means for each of these characters, and discuss Clarke’s symbolic use of “madness” as a social critique throughout the novel.

Clarke’s work reflects the influence of many of the important literary and cultural movements of the 19th century. Citing multiple examples, discuss how her use of pastiche affects the novel’s style and tone, and examine the impact of Romanticism and/or the conventions of the novel of manners on Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell.