Summary of the work - Sykalo Eugen 2023

Short summary - Jennie Gerhardt by Theodore Dreiser

Theodore Dreiser's "Jennie Gerhardt" is an epic and monumental work of literature that explores the complexities of life in the early 20th century. The story takes place in the United States during a time of significant social and economic changes. The novel centers around the life of a young woman named Jennie Gerhardt, who faces various challenges as she navigates through life. The novel is a tale of love, sacrifice, and resilience and is a testament to the human spirit's ability to persevere in the face of adversity.

The novel begins with the introduction of Jennie, who is the daughter of a poor German-American family living in a small town in Ohio. Her mother works as a laundress, while her father is an alcoholic. Despite her humble upbringing, Jennie is a beautiful and intelligent young woman who dreams of a better life. Her ambition leads her to meet a wealthy senator named Brander, who takes an interest in her and offers to help her family. However, Jennie's father refuses to accept the senator's assistance, and Jennie is left to fend for herself.

Jennie eventually finds work as a maid for a wealthy family in Chicago. It is there that she meets a young man named Lester Kane, who is the son of a wealthy businessman. Lester is immediately drawn to Jennie's beauty and charm, and they begin a secret relationship. However, Lester's father disapproves of their relationship and threatens to disown Lester if he continues to see Jennie.

Undeterred, Lester and Jennie continue to see each other, and they eventually move to New York, where they have a child together. However, their happiness is short-lived, as Lester's father discovers their secret and follows through with his threat to disown Lester. Jennie is left alone to raise their child, and she struggles to make ends meet.

As the years go by, Jennie's life becomes even more complicated. She becomes involved with a wealthy businessman named Higginbotham, who promises to take care of her and her child. However, Higginbotham is a cruel and abusive man who treats Jennie poorly. She eventually leaves him and returns to Lester, who is now dying of illness. Jennie cares for Lester until his death, and she is left once again to raise their child on her own.

Throughout the novel, Jennie's character is tested in various ways, and she must constantly adapt to her changing circumstances. She is forced to make difficult choices and sacrifices, but she remains strong and resilient throughout it all. The novel is a tribute to the power of the human spirit and the ability to persevere in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, "Jennie Gerhardt" is a masterpiece of literature that explores the human condition with masterful skill. The plot is complex and multi-layered, with many twists and turns along the way. The characters are well-developed and realistic, and the reader is drawn into their lives and struggles. This is a novel that will resonate with readers who appreciate stories of human triumph and perseverance. It is a work of art that will stand the test of time and continue to inspire generations of readers for years to come.