68 pages • 2 hours read
Theodore DreiserAn American Tragedy
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1925A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
An American Tragedy by Theodore Dreiser details the life of Clyde Griffiths, who, after a troubled childhood with poor, itinerant preacher parents, ascends the social ladder but ultimately faces tragedy. He becomes involved with two women, Roberta Alden and Sondra Finchley, leading to Roberta's death during a boat trip, resulting in Clyde's arrest and trial for her murder, culminating in his execution. The novel contains racism, stereotypes, and depictions of violence against women.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Theodore Dreiser's An American Tragedy is lauded for its incisive social commentary and vivid character development, depicting how ambition and societal pressures shape individuals. However, some readers find the narrative overly detailed and the pacing slow. Its portrayal of the American Dream remains a powerful and controversial critique.
Who Should Read An American Tragedy?
Readers who enjoy An American Tragedy by Theodore Dreiser are typically drawn to naturalistic and social critique novels. Comparable to fans of The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald and Sister Carrie by Dreiser himself, they appreciate rich character studies, themes of ambition, and the exploration of the American Dream's dark side.