Theodore Dreiser

Definition

Theodore Dreiser was an American novelist and journalist known for his contributions to the literary movements of realism and naturalism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His works often focus on the struggles of individuals against social and economic forces, portraying life with stark honesty and an unfiltered perspective, which aligns closely with the themes of realism and naturalism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Dreiser's works often depict characters who are caught in the web of economic struggles and societal pressures, reflecting the harsh realities of life.
2. He is best known for his novel 'Sister Carrie,' which faced controversy upon release due to its candid treatment of sexuality and social issues.
3. Dreiser was influenced by European writers such as Émile Zola, leading him to adopt a more deterministic view of human behavior in his narratives.
4. His writing style is characterized by long, flowing sentences and a focus on psychological depth, allowing readers to deeply understand his characters' motivations.
5. Dreiser's contribution to American literature helped pave the way for future writers who embraced similar themes of social criticism and human struggle.

Review Questions

• How does Theodore Dreiser's approach to character development reflect the principles of realism?
  • Theodore Dreiser's character development showcases the principles of realism by emphasizing ordinary individuals facing genuine struggles within their environments. He delves into their psychological complexities, often highlighting how societal and economic factors shape their choices and fates. This approach allows readers to connect deeply with the characters as they navigate the harsh realities of life, making them relatable representations of real people.
• In what ways does 'Sister Carrie' illustrate themes of naturalism and critique societal norms?
  • 'Sister Carrie' serves as a powerful illustration of naturalism by demonstrating how environment and social circumstances dictate the protagonist's actions and outcomes. Carrie is portrayed as a product of her society, struggling against the constraints placed upon her by gender roles and economic conditions. The novel critiques societal norms by showcasing Carrie's pursuit of happiness and success, ultimately revealing the limitations imposed by her circumstances, thus challenging the moral standards of Dreiser's time.
• Evaluate the impact of Theodore Dreiser's work on American literature in relation to global movements of realism and naturalism.
  • The impact of Theodore Dreiser's work on American literature is significant, as he helped to establish a voice that resonated with global movements of realism and naturalism. By addressing themes such as poverty, ambition, and social injustice, he aligned American literature with international trends that emphasized a stark portrayal of life. His candid exploration of human experiences influenced subsequent generations of writers who sought to reflect societal truths in their narratives, ultimately enriching the American literary landscape with a more authentic representation of the human condition.

Related terms

Naturalism:

A literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century, emphasizing a scientific approach to literature by depicting life as determined by environment, heredity, and social conditions.

Realism: A movement in literature that aims to represent everyday life accurately, focusing on ordinary characters and events without idealization or romanticism.

Sister Carrie: A novel by Theodore Dreiser published in 1900 that tells the story of a young woman's quest for success and her moral struggles in a rapidly industrializing society.