The Pit
What is The Pit about?
The Pit (1903) is the second volume of Frank Norris’s Epic of the Wheat trilogy, published posthumously. Set in the Chicago Board of Trade, it follows Curtis Jadwin, a speculator who attempts to corner the wheat market. As Jadwin’s obsession with the pit (the trading floor) consumes him, his marriage deteriorates and the impersonal forces of supply and demand ultimately prove stronger than any individual’s will. The novel provides a vivid portrait of financial speculation and its human costs.
Main themes in The Pit
Financial speculation
Financial speculation emerges as a defining element in The Pit, shaping character development.
Chicago Board of Trade
Chicago Board of Trade emerges as a defining element in The Pit, shaping character development.
Market manipulation
The Pit thoughtfully explores market manipulation through its central conflicts.
Obsession
Obsession emerges as a defining element in The Pit, shaping character development.
Why The Pit is still relevant today
The Pit offers a gripping portrait of financial speculation that resonates with modern readers familiar with market bubbles and crashes. Read it free online on TextStack.
More by this author
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Pit about?
A speculator tries to corner the Chicago wheat market, but his obsession destroys his marriage and the impersonal forces of supply and demand overwhelm his ambitions.
Where can I read The Pit online?
You can read The Pit by Frank Norris free online on TextStack.