Pastors and Masters

Pastors and Masters

*Pastors and Masters* by Ivy Compton-Burnett is a novel set in a Victorian-era boarding school, focusing on the intricacies of power and authority within the institution. The story revolves around the interactions and power struggles among the school's headmaster, Mr. Herrick, and his colleagues, including various clergymen and schoolmasters. The narrative unfolds through sharp and often witty dialogue, revealing the underlying tensions and rivalries that exist among the staff and between the staff and the students. The novel delves into themes of manipulation, ambition, and control, as the characters navigate their roles within the school's hierarchical structure. As the plot progresses, the story explores how these dynamics affect relationships and the functioning of the school. Compton-Burnett's incisive portrayal of her characters' interactions offers a satirical and critical examination of the social and moral complexities of institutional life.