Class Opposition and Social Change in Poldark

Poldark is a British historical drama television series that aired from 2015 to 2019 on BBC One. Based on the novels by Winston Graham, the series was adapted by Debbie Horsfield and became a fan-favorite due to its gripping storytelling, breathtaking cinematography, and compelling performances—especially by Aidan Turner in the lead role.

Set in the late 18th century, Poldark follows Ross Poldark (Aidan Turner), a British Army officer who returns to his home in Cornwall after fighting in the American Revolutionary War. He arrives to find his world turned upside down—his father has died, his family estate is in ruins, and his beloved Elizabeth (Heida Reed) is engaged to his wealthy cousin Francis (Kyle Soller). Determined to rebuild his life, Ross works to revive his family’s mining business and help the struggling local community.

Along the way, he meets and falls in love with Demelza (Eleanor Tomlinson), a spirited and independent woman from a poor background. Their passionate yet tumultuous relationship becomes one of the series’ most captivating elements. Meanwhile, Ross also faces conflicts with the ruthless banker George Warleggan (Jack Farthing), whose ambition and jealousy fuel many of the show’s dramatic moments.

Aidan Turner’s Performance – Turner’s portrayal of Ross Poldark was widely praised, capturing the character’s charm, determination, and inner struggles.

Demelza’s Strength – Eleanor Tomlinson’s Demelza became a fan-favorite for her resilience, wit, and unwavering loyalty to Ross.

Beautiful Cinematography – The sweeping landscapes of Cornwall, with its rugged cliffs and stunning beaches, added to the show’s visual appeal.

Dramatic Storylines – Love triangles, class struggles, political intrigue, and personal betrayals kept viewers engaged across all five seasons.

Politics, Economics and Working Class Life in Poldark

Besides the tumultuous love story, Poldark also delves into political, economic and social issues in England in the late 18th century. The film paints a realistic picture of class disparities, struggles for survival and political intrigues in the context of post-war England.

1. The Opposition Between the Aristocracy and the Working Class

England in the 18th century was a society with a clear hierarchy between the wealthy upper class and the poor working class. The film focuses on the conflict between Ross Poldark—a progressive aristocrat who always fought for the rights of the people—and wealthy capitalists like George Warleggan, who only cared about profit and power.

Ross, despite his aristocratic background, sided with the working class, opposing the exploitation of the upper class. Meanwhile, George Warleggan is an ambitious businessman who seeks to manipulate the local economy, control the mines and consolidate the Warleggan family’s power. The rivalry between Ross and George is not only a personal conflict but also represents the battle between justice and greed in society at that time.

2. Mining and Economic Difficulties

One of the main economic themes in Poldark is the mining industry in Cornwall. The area is heavily dependent on tin and copper mining, but the economy is threatened when the mines begin to run out and the price of metals plummets.

Ross Poldark tries to keep the Wheal Grace and Wheal Leisure mines, despite sabotage from Warleggan and financial difficulties. Workers in the mines face dangerous working conditions, low wages and an uncertain future. The film realistically reflects the plight of poor miners, who are always in debt and exploited by the upper class.

In addition, the film also deals with the food crisis, famine and unemployment in Cornwall, when people were pushed into poverty. Ross not only fought to save the mine but also sought to help the workers through charity and political activities.

3. Politics and Social Change

Britain at this time experienced many major political changes, including the French Revolution (1789) and its effects on the British aristocracy. The film skillfully weaves these historical events into the story of Ross and those around him.

Ross Poldark, with his liberal and righteous thoughts, is not afraid to speak out against injustice. He enters politics as a member of the British Parliament, where he tries to improve living conditions for the working class. However, he faces hostility from conservative politicians and wealthy forces such as the Warleggan family, who want to maintain the old social order.

In addition, the film also reflects the instability of the judicial system and the harsh punishments for the poor. One of the memorable moments is when Ross tries to prevent unjust death sentences or help innocent people who have been wrongly convicted.

4. The Role of Women in Conservative Society

The film also highlights the difficulties that women face in a patriarchal society. The character Demelza—who comes from a poor background but becomes Ross’s wife—is constantly judged and looked down upon by the upper class. She represents strong women who do not accept their fate but always try to change their lives.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth Warleggan is trapped in a marriage with George Warleggan for economic and social benefits, showing the helplessness of many aristocratic women who cannot decide their own lives.

Authentic Historical Detail – The show’s portrayal of 18th-century England, from its social hierarchy to its economic hardships, added depth and realism.

The fifth and final season, which aired in 2019, brought the series to a satisfying close while also leaving room for the possibility of future adaptations. Though Poldark ended before fully covering all of Winston Graham’s novels, it remained a beloved series that captured the essence of historical romance and drama.

With its passionate love stories, compelling characters, and breathtaking scenery, Poldark remains one of the most memorable British period dramas of the 21st century.