Vandover and the Brute

Definition

'Vandover and the Brute' is a novel by Frank Norris that exemplifies the principles of naturalism in American literature, focusing on the struggle between human desires and societal constraints. The story centers on the character of Vandover, who grapples with his ambitions and moral dilemmas in a world governed by instincts and brute force. This narrative embodies the naturalistic themes of determinism, the influence of environment, and the inherent animalistic tendencies within humans, making it a key work in understanding the broader naturalistic movement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Vandover and the Brute' was published in 1914 and is recognized for its unflinching depiction of human nature and societal pressures.
2. The novel highlights the conflict between Vandover's artistic aspirations and the harsh realities of a society that prioritizes wealth and power.
3. Norris uses vivid imagery and symbolism to illustrate Vandover's internal struggles and his eventual succumbing to brute instincts.
4. The title reflects the duality of Vandover's character—his artistic sensibilities versus his primal urges—demonstrating naturalism's focus on the human condition.
5. The book critiques the social Darwinism prevalent at the time, showing how individuals are often trapped by their circumstances and genetic inheritance.

Review Questions

• How does Frank Norris use Vandover's character to illustrate the themes of naturalism in 'Vandover and the Brute'?
  • Frank Norris crafts Vandover as a complex character who embodies the struggles between aspiration and instinct. Throughout the novel, Vandover's artistic ambitions are consistently undermined by his base desires and societal expectations, showcasing how naturalism highlights human beings as products of their environment. This conflict demonstrates Norris's belief that individuals are often at the mercy of forces beyond their control, effectively illustrating key themes of determinism and the brute nature present in humanity.
• Analyze how 'Vandover and the Brute' reflects societal attitudes towards ambition and morality during its time period.
  • The novel captures early 20th-century societal attitudes that often valued wealth and power over moral integrity. Vandover's experiences reveal a culture that rewards brute force and material success while punishing those who pursue artistic or ethical ideals. Through Vandover's downfall, Norris critiques these attitudes by demonstrating how they lead to moral decay and personal tragedy, reflecting a broader commentary on societal values during a time of rapid industrialization.
• Evaluate the impact of setting on character development in 'Vandover and the Brute', considering how it enhances naturalistic themes.
  • The setting in 'Vandover and the Brute' plays a crucial role in shaping character development, as it presents a world filled with socio-economic challenges that directly influence Vandover's choices. The urban landscape symbolizes both opportunity and entrapment, reinforcing naturalistic themes of environment shaping behavior. As Vandover navigates this complex world, his interactions with both people and place reveal how external pressures can push individuals toward their more primal instincts, demonstrating Norris's argument that humans are often bound by their circumstances.

Related terms

Naturalism: A literary movement that emphasizes a realistic portrayal of life, often highlighting the influence of environment, heredity, and social conditions on human behavior.

Determinism: The philosophical concept that all events, including human actions, are ultimately determined by causes external to the will, often explored in naturalistic literature.

Brute Force: Refers to the raw physical power and instincts that drive characters' actions in naturalistic works, often contrasting with their intellectual or moral aspirations.