Frank Norris

Definition

Frank Norris was an influential American author and journalist known for his role in the development of naturalism in literature during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His works often depict the harsh realities of life and the struggles of individuals against larger societal forces, highlighting themes of determinism and the influence of environment on human behavior.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Frank Norris was born on March 5, 1870, in Chicago and later moved to California, where much of his writing was set.
2. His novel 'McTeague,' published in 1899, is considered one of the foundational texts of American naturalism, focusing on the destructive effects of greed and desire.
3. Norris's writing style is characterized by vivid descriptions and an emphasis on the influence of social forces on individual lives.
4. 'The Octopus' was part of Norris's planned trilogy called 'The Epic of the Wheat,' which aimed to depict the impact of capitalism on American society.
5. Norris tragically died at a young age from complications related to appendicitis at just 32 years old, leaving a lasting legacy as a key figure in American naturalism.

Review Questions

• How did Frank Norris contribute to the development of naturalism in American literature?
  • Frank Norris significantly contributed to naturalism by emphasizing the influence of environment and social conditions on human behavior in his works. His novels often portrayed characters who were trapped by their circumstances, showcasing themes like determinism and survival. By vividly illustrating these struggles, he helped to establish naturalism as a vital literary movement that focused on realistic depictions of life.
• Analyze the impact of Frank Norris's novel 'The Octopus' on American literary themes regarding capitalism and individual struggle.
  • 'The Octopus' serves as a critical examination of capitalism and its effects on individual lives, particularly through its portrayal of farmers battling against the oppressive power of railroad companies. The novel illustrates how corporate interests can undermine personal rights and livelihoods. This conflict encapsulates broader themes present in naturalism, showcasing how characters are often helpless against larger economic forces that dictate their fates.
• Evaluate how Frank Norris's personal experiences may have influenced his views on determinism and societal forces reflected in his writings.
  • Frank Norris's upbringing in Chicago and his later experiences in California exposed him to various social dynamics and economic struggles. These experiences likely shaped his views on determinism, as he observed how individuals were often at the mercy of their environments and societal structures. His writing reflects this understanding, emphasizing how external forces such as greed, power, and capitalism can dictate personal outcomes. This perspective not only enriches his narratives but also aligns with the principles of naturalism that define his literary legacy.

Related terms

Naturalism:

A literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century, emphasizing a realistic portrayal of life and often exploring themes of survival, determinism, and the influence of environment on human behavior.

The Octopus: One of Frank Norris's most famous novels, published in 1901, which explores the conflict between wheat farmers and a powerful railroad company in California, illustrating the struggles between individual rights and corporate power.

Realism: A literary movement that focused on depicting everyday life and society as it is, often contrasting with romanticism by avoiding idealized or exaggerated portrayals of characters and situations.