Final answer:
The scene of abuse might be included to represent power dynamics, evoke emotional responses, and highlight historical gender inequality.
Step-by-step explanation:
The scene in which Elihu Lockton hits his wife, Anne, may have been included by the author to illustrate the dynamics of power and oppression in relationships, which can be parallel to the larger themes of power and inequality in society, as well as to create an emotional response in the reader and build the narrative's tension. This type of intimate abuse adds depth to the characters and evokes a sense of empathy and outrage, making the societal criticisms more poignant. Through this scene, the author may also be highlighting the lack of rights and the vulnerability of women during the time period in which the story is set, propelling the reader to reflect on historical and maybe contemporary issues of gender inequality.