An American Tragedy by Theodore Dreiser
- 1. An American Tragedy by Theodore Dreiser is a profound and poignant exploration of the American Dream, delving into the life of Clyde Griffiths, a young man caught in the throes of ambition and desire. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century America, the novel documents Clyde's relentless pursuit of wealth and status, as he navigates the complexities of his social environment, grappling with the moral dilemmas that arise from his choices. Through a series of misguided decisions and the tragic consequences of his actions, Clyde becomes ensnared in a web of deception, love, and ultimately, murder. The narrative raises critical questions about the societal pressures that drive individuals to seek success at any cost, illustrating the harsh realities of class disparity and the devastating impacts of ambition unchecked by moral considerations. Dreiser's vivid prose and deep psychological insight provide readers with an unsettling yet compelling portrayal of a man whose pursuit of happiness leads to his downfall, making An American Tragedy a timeless reflection on the darker aspects of the human condition and the elusive nature of the American Dream.
Who is the main protagonist of 'An American Tragedy'?
A) Roberta Alden
B) Clyde Griffiths
C) George Hurstwood
D) Sondra Finchley
- 2. What is the primary theme of 'An American Tragedy'?
A) Revenge and justice
B) The inevitability of fate
C) Class struggle
D) The pursuit of the American dream
- 3. How does Clyde view his social status?
A) He is indifferent
B) He feels superior
C) He feels inferior
D) He is content
- 4. What is the name of Clyde's wealthy love interest?
A) Roberta Alden
B) Miriam
C) Sondra Finchley
D) Evelyn
- 5. How is Clyde ultimately punished?
A) He escapes
B) He is imprisoned for life
C) He is sentenced to death
D) He is set free
- 6. What does Dreiser suggest about morality in the novel?
A) It is irrelevant
B) It is absolute and universal
C) It is relative and shaped by society
D) It is determined by religion
- 7. What crime is Clyde accused of?
A) Theft
B) Assault
C) Fraud
D) Murder
- 8. What drives Clyde to commit his crime?
A) Insanity
B) Desperation and ambition
C) Revenge
D) Passion
- 9. What technique does Dreiser use extensively in the novel?
A) Romanticism
B) Modernism
C) Symbolism
D) Naturalism
- 10. What pivotal moment foreshadows Clyde's downfall?
A) His affair with Roberta
B) His promotion at work
C) His father's death
D) His meeting with Sondra
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