1. The novel criticizes the mechanization of human beings through industrialization as represented by Gradgrind who teaches only facts and Bounderby who treats workers as machines. This dulls emotions and imaginations. 2. It questions distinguishing only facts from fancy, suggesting perspective influences facts. Gradgrind's children suffer from prohibiting fancy. 3. It promotes femininity's role in countering industrialization through compassion, showing how women help others through hard times.