Explore the origins, meaning, and cultural significance of the phrase 'the great unwashed,' often used to describe the working classes.
The phrase “the great unwashed” refers to the working classes or the general populace, often implying a lack of refinement or education. It is typically used in a humorous or ironic manner to highlight class distinctions.
The origin of the phrase “the great unwashed” can be traced to the early 19th century. It first appeared in print in Theodore Hook’s The Parson’s Daughter (1833), where it was used in quotation marks, suggesting that it was already a recognized term at the time. Although the exact individual who coined the phrase remains unknown, its usage in Britain has been linked to the social upheavals of the French Revolution, where the term was employed to describe the masses who rose against the privileged classes. The phrase reflects the class-consciousness of the era and the disdain of the upper classes towards the working populace.
Semantically, “the great unwashed” carries connotations of social division and class-based prejudice. The term implies a lack of sophistication and education among the working classes, often used by those in higher social strata to underscore perceived differences in status. In contemporary usage, it is often employed ironically or humorously to critique these class distinctions or to mock elitist attitudes.
In modern culture, “the great unwashed” is frequently used in literature, journalism, and social commentary to evoke images of the common people or to satirize elitist perspectives. Its usage often reflects a critical stance towards social hierarchies and class-based discrimination.
The phrase “the great unwashed” can vary in meaning depending on the context. In a historical context, it may refer more specifically to the social dynamics of the 19th century. In contemporary usage, it often serves as a critique of ongoing class distinctions or as a humorous remark on elitism.
Despite predictions of its obsolescence, the phrase “the great unwashed” remains in use today, largely due to its ironic and satirical potential. Its continued relevance is bolstered by ongoing discussions of class and social inequality. ★★★☆☆
“The great unwashed are rising up, demanding their share of the wealth and power that has long been denied them.” - Anonymous
“The great unwashed, as they are often contemptuously called, are not without their own wisdom and dignity.” - The Times Literary Supplement