Babbitt
What is Babbitt about?
Babbitt (1922) portrays George F. Babbitt, a prosperous real-estate agent in the fictional city of Zenith who is the perfect embodiment of middle-class American conformity. When Babbitt attempts to rebel against his comfortable but empty life, he discovers just how tightly society’s grip holds. The novel that gave English the word “Babbitt.”
Main themes in Babbitt
Middle-class conformity
Middle-class conformity emerges as a defining element in Babbitt, shaping character development.
American businessman
The theme of american businessman weaves through Babbitt, adding depth to its narrative.
Rebellion
The theme of rebellion weaves through Babbitt, adding depth to its narrative.
Zenith
In Babbitt, zenith provides a lens for understanding the story's core message.
Why Babbitt is still relevant today
One of the great American satires. “Babbitt” entered the dictionary as a word for a self-satisfied conformist businessman.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Babbitt about?
A conformist American businessman tries to rebel against his empty comfortable life and discovers society won't let him. The novel that coined 'Babbitt.'
Where can I read it?
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