Sister Carrie

Definition

'Sister Carrie' is a novel by Theodore Dreiser, first published in 1900, that follows the life of a young woman named Carrie Meeber as she navigates the challenges of urban life, ambition, and desire in late 19th-century America. The story exemplifies naturalism, highlighting how environment, social conditions, and heredity shape human behavior and fate, ultimately portraying the harsh realities faced by individuals striving for success in an unforgiving society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Sister Carrie' was considered controversial at the time of its publication due to its candid portrayal of female sexuality and the struggles of women in a patriarchal society.
2. The novel presents a critical view of American society, illustrating the impact of industrialization and urbanization on individual lives.
3. Carrie's relationships with men, including Charles Drouet and George Hurstwood, highlight themes of ambition, materialism, and the quest for personal fulfillment.
4. The ending of 'Sister Carrie' leaves readers questioning the moral implications of Carrie's choices and the societal pressures that shaped her decisions.
5. 'Sister Carrie' is often viewed as a precursor to modern American literature due to its complex characters and unflinching examination of societal issues.

Review Questions

• How does 'Sister Carrie' reflect the principles of naturalism in its portrayal of Carrie's experiences?
  • 'Sister Carrie' embodies naturalism through its emphasis on how environment and social conditions shape Carrie's life choices and outcomes. The novel illustrates how Carrie's struggles and desires are influenced by her urban surroundings, economic pressures, and her relationships with men. This focus on external factors leading to internal conflicts showcases Dreiser's commitment to depicting life as it is, rather than how one might wish it to be.
• Discuss how Dreiser's depiction of urbanization contributes to the themes present in 'Sister Carrie.'
  • Dreiser's depiction of urbanization in 'Sister Carrie' serves as a backdrop for exploring themes such as ambition and societal pressure. As Carrie moves from her rural origins to Chicago, she confronts both opportunities and harsh realities that come with city life. This transition highlights the transformative power of urban environments while also revealing the darker side of industrial society, where personal aspirations can lead to moral ambiguity and disillusionment.
• Evaluate the significance of female agency in 'Sister Carrie' and how it interacts with societal expectations of the time.
  • In 'Sister Carrie,' female agency is portrayed as both empowering and constrained by societal expectations. While Carrie seeks independence through her relationships and ambitions, she is continually confronted with the limitations imposed by a patriarchal society that views women primarily through the lens of their sexuality and domestic roles. This complex interaction raises important questions about women's rights and autonomy during the late 19th century, making Carrie's journey resonate with contemporary discussions on gender equality and individual freedom.

Related terms

Naturalism: 'Naturalism' is a literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century, emphasizing a realistic portrayal of life and the influence of environment and heredity on human behavior, often depicting the darker aspects of existence.

Dreiser's Realism: 'Dreiser's Realism' refers to Theodore Dreiser's unique approach to storytelling that focuses on the everyday lives of ordinary people, often highlighting social injustices and moral ambiguities without romanticizing the characters or their situations.

Urbanization: 'Urbanization' refers to the process by which rural areas become urbanized, marked by population shifts from rural to urban settings, often leading to significant social and economic changes, as depicted in 'Sister Carrie.'