Gender

Although its plot hinges on events in British history more closely connected to colonialism and race, The Fraud is primarily interested in the delicate position of women—and particularly "upper-class" women—in the world of nineteenth century Britain. Through the central character of Eliza, Smith explores many aspects of female oppression during this period and questions the impact that such sidelining might have on an individual's psychology. She also draws connections between Eliza and one of the key witnesses in the famous Tichborne case, Andrew Bogle, in order to articulate complex ideas about the relationship between empowerment and deceit.

Eliza, who by the beginning of the novel is beginning to fade into old age, has long been buffeted by the forces of the patriarchal society in which she lives. Her livelihood has never been independent from that of a man; she is initially married to her...