In Dr. Wortle's School, the story of an individual's stand against the collective prejudice and conventional wisdom of Society, Trollope produced his most subversive novel. When Mr. and Mrs. Peacocke are employed at Dr. Wortle's private school as assistant master and matron they appear to be precisely what the proprietor is looking for. But the revelation that their marriage is not above-board provokes a scandal in the local community. By defending the couple, Dr. Wortle risks the reputation of both himself and his school. At the heart of his heroism is his daring to be unconventional.