While Charlotte initially sees Zachariah as beneath her due to his social status and profession, she gradually comes to respect and even admire him. The novel focuses on the development of their relationship, which moves from suspicion and mistrust to mutual understanding and even friendship.
Here are some points to consider:
* Charlotte's initial prejudice: Charlotte is from a wealthy family and initially views Zachariah as a servant, someone of lower social standing. This creates a barrier in their relationship, but it's not based on a belief that he is inherently inferior.
* Zachariah's strength and skill: Charlotte comes to recognize Zachariah's strength, competence, and resilience as a sailor. These qualities earn her respect, overcoming her initial prejudice.
* Mutual respect develops: By the end of the novel, Charlotte acknowledges Zachariah's bravery and moral compass. They develop a mutual respect for one another that transcends their social differences.
While Charlotte may initially hold a condescending attitude towards Zachariah, the novel emphasizes how their relationship evolves into something more complex and meaningful. Therefore, it's incorrect to say Charlotte ever explicitly calls Zachariah her inferior. Instead, the story highlights how her perceptions change as she gets to know him better.