Sinclair Lewis' "Babbitt"
Sinclair Lewis' novel "Babbitt" is considered a classic work of American literature, first published in 1922. The novel follows the life of George F. Babbitt, a successful real estate agent living in the fictional Midwestern city of Zenith. Babbitt is portrayed as a typical middle-class businessman, seeking material success and conformity to societal expectations.
Through the character of Babbitt, Lewis satirizes the culture and values of American society in the early 20th century. Babbitt represents the average American man of the time, aspiring to climb the social ladder and achieve the American Dream of prosperity and social status.
Throughout the novel, Babbitt grapples with the emptiness of his materialistic lifestyle and the conformity that stifles his individuality. He begins to question the values he has always accepted and starts to explore his own desires and ambitions beyond the expectations of society.
Lewis' portrayal of Babbitt's internal struggles and his eventual quest for self-discovery resonated with many readers at the time of its publication and continues to be relevant today. "Babbitt" remains a significant work of literature that explores themes of conformity, individuality, and the pursuit of happiness in a rapidly changing society.