Schoolroom Rebellion

The schoolroom rebellion symbolizes the power of collective action in the face of injustice. When Mr. Orchard cruelly threatens to cane Nye over his stutter, his classmates unite in solidarity, physically layering their hands together to resist punishment. This moment foreshadows Nye’s later political struggles, showing how working-class people, like the children in the scene, can challenge authority through unity. Luke’s attempt to remain neutral but still suffering highlights the idea that inaction does not guarantee safety. While the metaphor is somewhat heavy-handed, the scene effectively establishes one of the play’s central themes: that real change is only possible through collective resistance.

Library

The library symbolizes the transformative power of education, particularly for the working class. It represents the idea that knowledge is a tool for empowerment, allowing people to improve their circumstances and challenge injustice. For Nye, the library is especially...