Paradigms and Perception
The Square acts as the link between the dimensions due to his familiarization with the three different dimensions. Originating from Flatland, a two-dimensional world, he explores Lineland and observes their myopic view of the universe. Their perception is limited to the perimeters of their world, even Square appears as a line with dissociated points. They cannot fathom a world where there are fully shaped figures and assume the claims as heresy. Furthermore, the Square cannot comprehend Spaceland until the Sphere convinces him otherwise because he initially renders it as an optical illusion.
The paradigm shift happens for the Square which changes his perception and fosters a thirst to seek more dimension. His claims about the third-dimension to the residents of Flatlands are either denied or suppressed by the people in power. If such a dimension exists then the paradigm shift that will take place in their society will fracture their fabric of reality. Therefore, with a fractured reality, the perception of the universe has to be nurtured anew, which poses existential crises. The story reflects the same limited perception of our universe at a particular point in time regarding science and morals.
Pursuit of Knowledge
It is a satirical take on our society in the past, present, and future concerning the conflict between truth and beliefs. Beliefs are relative in each era of our civilization particularly revolving around scientific knowledge, morals, and human rights. A Square is determined to pursue the limits of dimensions by exploring beyond Spaceland. By encountering dimensions that are simpler and also complex than his own, the possibility of more is awakened in him. This reflects the leap made in science, philosophy, and morality from the 19th century to the present day hence shows the relevance of the analogy. The morals in Victorian England were rigid and oppressed people based on race, gender, social status, and academic achievement. Square’s pursuit of knowledge is a commentary on the changing mindset of people and the imminent paradigm shifts.
Social Stratification and Inequality
Flatland resembles any society or civilization where social status and hierarchy are part of its fabric. However, in this two-dimensional world, the stratification is much more oppressive and tyrannical in nature. Through geometrical shapes, the novel creates a universe where higher classes and lower classes are distinguished by angles and sensory traits. The shapes are polygons for men while women are lines that address the dynamic of gender inequality in Flatland. Since the two-dimensional world is an analogy to Victorian Era society it reflects female oppression and the patriarchal system. In Flatland, women are subjected to specific norms to distinguish themselves and moreover forced to abide by regulations such as using different doorways.
The inequality in this civilization further goes into power dynamics where those on top of the hierarchy control every aspect of the laws. Promotion into the uppers orders is not guaranteed and run by a dubious criterion that subjugates the polygons and lines with distinct shapes. Irregular polygons are subjected to alterations or are destroyed as they are considered as anomalies that nurture immorality. ‘Perfect’ figures such as circles are ranked as nobles and are upheld as morally superior. Those that exhibit higher intellectual capacity in the lower classes who innovate are persecuted and banned from exploring new forms.