Final answer:
The game of Solitaire played by George in Chapter 3 symbolizes the individual struggle against socio-economic systems and the vice of excessive gambling in Georgian Britain. It serves as a broader social commentary on the era's challenges and the importance of cunning observation within life's complexities.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of the story mentioned, the game of Solitaire that George plays in Chapter 3 is symbolic of several themes that run throughout the narrative. George's solitary game represents the individual struggle within the larger, oppressive system of Georgian Britain, where escaping debt was nearly impossible. This scenario is highlighted by the inmates' futile attempts to better their situations through impossible endeavors, such as trying to turn lead into gold or solving the national debt crisis. These actions illustrate the overwhelming challenges faced by individuals during this time period, reflecting broader social comments about the futility of attempting to surmount overwhelming socio-economic systems.
Moreover, George's game of Solitaire echoes a prevalent issue in the eighteenth century: excessive gambling. The text references the historical context, such as George III's son needing Parliament's help to pay his gambling debts, emphasizing the destructive nature of gambling and its impact on individuals and their families. As George squanders his fortune, this serves as a cautionary tale about the misuse of money and the social critique on the corruption of wealth and class structures.
Lastly, this moment in the story underscores the importance of being observant and cunning, as the adept player in the game of Solitaire might parallel the story's characters who must be sharp and astute to navigate their tricky circumstances. The narrative uses the game as a metaphor for life's complexities, where what seems obvious may be overlooked, and one's success depends on the ability to perceive and address hidden truths.