An American Tragedy

Historical Context and Significance

«An American Tragedy» by Theodore Dreiser, written in 1925, became significant in the history of American and world literature due to its profound social analysis and critique of the American Dream. The book vividly demonstrates how a society based on consumption and the pursuit of success at any cost leads to tragic events in the life of an ordinary person. This work influenced the development of not only realism in literature but also the understanding of American identity. Dreiser raised questions of morality, social justice, and predestination that remain relevant in contemporary society. The book has been adapted into films multiple times, fostering dialogue about social issues in cinema and theater.