"Babbitt" by Sinclair Lewis

Paper Summary:

This paper presents, from the novel "Babbitt" by Sinclair Lewis, the character of George Babbitt, the author's image of the middle-American businessman who is constantly struggling with his identity in society. The paper states that this image is based on the developing consumer culture of the era; Babbitt seeks to buy all the goods possible and to display them as trophies in his home in order to show the world that he is a success. The author believes that, in truth, Babbitt never achieves the happiness and satisfaction he desires and instead is constantly disappointed in the things he buys to make himself happy.

From the Paper:

"Babbitt does indeed belong to such organizations, and to any other club or organization that he sees as giving him a position in the community. A position is not only valued for what it says about how Babbitt belongs, but also for the business value it confers. Business brings Babbitt money, of course, but it also places him at a certain position in the company of men. He identifies with Ted through business dealings in which they act together, for instance. The world outside the home is always more important to Babbitt than the world of his family, though he sees each as a reflection of himself and proof that he is a success."

More papers on "Babbitt" by Sinclair Lewis:

• Book Review # 108397 : "Babbitt" by Sinclair Lewis"
• Analytical Essay # 26551 : "Babbitt"
• Analytical Essay # 15264 : "Sinclair Lewis' Babbitt"

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