The society in a text is divided into two groups: those that fit the `norm', or the dominant ideology, and those that reject the values of the dominant ideology. The dominant ideology of the late 19th century Australian society worked to the advantage of white Anglo-Celtic males. Women and Aborigines were excluded from society. In a text, these groups would normally be silenced. However, in the novel A Kindness Cup, the author Thea Astley views the 19th century Australian society with a post colonial perspective, empathising with the marginalised groups. Although Aboriginals, women and sympathisers of these groups are marginalised in the novel, their views are not silenced and it is those who support the dominant ideology who are placed in a negative light.

It is instantly made obvious that the Aboriginals are not a part of normality. The sarcasm used by Mrs. Buckmaster when she states "They're...