The Whipping Boy

The Whipping Boy’s exploration of wealth and poverty is a prominent theme because the two main characters occupy vastly different socioeconomic positions. In exploring the contrast between wealth and poverty, the novel reveals that characters aren’t inherently happier because they are wealthier—in fact, individuals with less wealth may be more resilient and equipped to thrive. As the son and heir of the reigning monarch, Prince Horace has access to vast wealth, yet remains unhappy. Jemmy describes the prince at this point in the novel as “bored with his own meanness and haughtiness and cruelty” (77).

In fact, Prince Horace’s luxurious life seems to make him less happy. Because of his status and wealth, the prince has to uphold certain standards of behavior, and is denied many of the experiences of a “normal” young boy. He eventually complains to Jemmy that “the ladies keep me clean and starched as a pillowcase” (49), while he would prefer to be free and relaxed. Prince Horace takes his luxuries for granted, and stops appreciating them; instead, he longs for simpler pleasures. For example, the prince remarks with glee, “I’ve never been allowed to carry anything!” (64). Finally, the prince’s pampered life prevents him from developing common sense and resilience, and thus hinders him.

In contrast, Jemmy never seems unhappy or resentful about having grown up in poverty. He often thinks fondly of his life on the streets, and longs to go back to this lifestyle, when he was “ragged but carefree” (2). Moreover, Jemmy’s resilience might be traced to him growing up in tough circumstances. He is always able to solve problems, even with limited resources, and adapts when situations don’t go as planned. By contrast, Prince Horace insists on getting his way no matter the situation. Jemmy is able to easily form bonds with different people, and he is later revealed to have lasting friendships with people from his time on the streets. Nothing about Jemmy’s socioeconomic position seems to significantly impair or sadden him—in fact, he is more competent and happier than the prince himself.

While the novel explores how wealth and poverty do not always determine happiness, it does suggest that social positions reflect responsibility. Prince Horace cannot simply run off to live the life of a commoner; he needs to take the lessons he learns and put them to practice as a future ruler. Likewise, Jemmy decides to apply his pragmatism and resilience to a more upper-class life, rather than returning to the streets. In the end, the novel frames the most responsible leaders as those who embody the best traits of different walks of life.