Dreiser Web Source Available to Purchase

Theodore Dreiser, a journalist turned novelist, was one of the primary influences in the evolution of American literature in the early twentieth century. Writing in a naturalistic tone, Dreiser moved away from late nineteenth century novels of romance, impeccable social conduct and gentile, moralistic plots. His works painted a world without pity and characters devoid of the altruistic motivations prevalent in the works of more popular authors of his day. Born the tenth of 11 surviving children near Terre Haute, Indiana, Dreiser grew up in poverty, never graduating from college and lacking the training of a polished writer. He was...