L'enigma di Otilia

The novel vividly portrays the tension between different social strata. Did anyone else feel that class determined much of the characters' fates and morals?

The historical context adds depth to the characters' struggles and aspirations. I wonder what motivated Călinescu to choose this particular period for the story.

The gradual unveiling kept me hooked, but I’m curious whether this was a deliberate choice or evolved during the writing process.