Sister Carrie

Set in late 19th-century Chicago, the story follows Carrie Meeber, a young woman who leaves her small-town life to chase her dreams. As she navigates relationships with men to enhance her career and status, Carrie's journey highlights the harsh realities of ambition and societal expectations. Dreiser delves into themes of consumerism, class disparities, and the elusive nature of happiness, ultimately revealing that success does not equate to fulfillment. The novel critiques moral standards of the time, making it a significant work in American literature.