Some S&S characters who also fall into this category ("If he had no money, he would despise himself.")

** John Dashwood
** Fanny Dashwood (adjust the pronoun)
** Lady Middleton (but not her husband)
** Mrs. Ferrars
** Mr. Willoughby

Other posters may add to this list. :) By the above statement, ("If he had no money ...") I've tried to suggest that these people, without a sense of self-worth, crumble if separated from social recognition, whether it is a good marriage, a title, or an estate. If born poor, they have little chance, unless a miracle intervenes. All of the above characters have some initial degree of economic security. This is why I don't list Lucy Steele, although my previous post may imply this. She is too tough, and has self-esteem, although why I cannot understand. She is a scrambler. And would scramble out of a flood, without getting wet.

With these characters, social identity is identity, and social identity is predicated on wealth. They could not fall back on humble lives as shop keepers or exile themselves and find new lives in foreign countries. The women could not marry modestly, and have children by gamekeepers. They employ game keepers, but not marry'em.

But self-disgust is a volatile thing, and when one of these individuals loses, or may lose social status, watch out.