How does the author portray the issue of poverty in the story?

The portrayal of poverty in the story centers around Katherina's struggles, highlighting its pervasive impact on her life and choices. This choice accurately reflects the author's intent to showcase how poverty shapes Katherina's experiences, challenges her aspirations, and influences her understanding of her identity and self-worth. Katherina's journey reveals the harsh realities of living in poverty, from her limited opportunities to her emotional and social hardships. The narrative deeply explores her resilience in the face of economic hardships, illustrating that poverty is not just a background detail, but a central theme that defines her character's development and the decisions she must make throughout the story. By focusing on Katherina's circumstances, the author effectively illustrates the multifaceted influence of poverty on individual lives and the broader societal implications.