''Pastors and Masters'' is largely a satirical depiction of Victorian institutions, and a character study of masculine authority and female subservience within the setting of a boys preparatory school after World War I. The narrative unfolds through sharp and often witty dialogue, revealing the underlying tensions and rivalries that exist among the staff and between the staff and the students. The novel delves into themes of manipulation, ambition, and control, as the characters navigate their roles within the school's hierarchical structure. Compton-Burnett's incisive portrayal of her characters' interactions offers a satirical and critical examination of the social and moral complexities of institutional life. Described in contemporary reviews as "a work of genius."

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