Wealth vs. Poverty
Caleb’s parents were poor farmers, who had little money and struggled to survive. This is contrasted with the luxury and wealth of the squire Falkland Ferdinand. Throughout the text, we see the benefit that wealth has in society. Significantly, Falkland is let off the hook due to his wealth and status, while Hawkins is accused. We see in the text that Falkland’s wealth and status allow him to avert the course of justice, and to falsely accuse people he doesn’t like of crimes.
Prison
Caleb is kept in a kind of metaphorical prison by Falkland, as he has the power to get him arrested. Falkland watches Caleb's every step, reminding him that if he tells anyone what he knows, he will take his revenge. As such, Caleb begins to feel his freedom being taken away. Falkland uses his power to keep Caleb in his service and watches his every move. In the text, Caleb is also threatened with the prospect of real prison but manages to escape.
Medieval imagery
Falkland says how he enjoys reading medieval stories, courtly romances and the exploits of knights. The medieval values of nobility and bravery are exercised by many characters in the text, including Caleb who chooses morality and justice over his own freedom.
Violence
After Tyrell causes the death of Emily, Falkland is incredibly angry. Tyrell turns up at a meeting he isn't invited to and attacks Falkland, who later leaves the meeting. After this, the corpse of Tyrell is found. Falkland is not found guilty of the murder due to his wealth and status.
