Arrowsmith
What is Arrowsmith about?
Arrowsmith (1925) follows Martin Arrowsmith from medical school through a career battling between pure scientific research and the corrupting pressures of money, institutions, and public health politics. Lewis (with scientific advisor Paul de Kruif) created one of the finest novels about the life of science.
Main themes in Arrowsmith
Medical science
Medical science emerges as a defining element in Arrowsmith, shaping character development.
Research vs. commerce
Research vs. commerce emerges as a defining element in Arrowsmith, shaping character development.
Idealism
The theme of idealism weaves through Arrowsmith, adding depth to its narrative.
Public health
Public health emerges as a defining element in Arrowsmith, shaping character development.
Why Arrowsmith is still relevant today
The definitive novel about the idealism and corruption of medical science. Lewis was awarded the Pulitzer Prize but declined it.
More by this author
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Arrowsmith about?
A doctor battles between pure scientific research and institutional corruption — the definitive novel about medical idealism.
Where can I read it?
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