"Social Critique and Satire: The Portrayal of American Society in the Novels of Sinclair Lewis."

Abstract

Sinclair Lewis gained the Nobel Prize in Literature as the first American writer because he mastered sharp critiques of American society. Through his novels like Main Street, Babbitt, Arrowsmith, and It Can’t Happen Here. In all his writings, he presents a realistic depiction of the society, politics, and cultural elements from his era while incorporating satirical aspects. Through his writings, he reveals societal problems in the United States during the early 1900s, which stem from the materialistic society and the hypocritical attitudes and ethical carelessness that existed during that time. Through his portrayals of several main characters who reflect small-town traditionalists and urban professionals, as well as corrupt systems, he criticizes societal practices that obstruct self-actualization and scholarship development. Through his novels, he presents a dominant narrative about how social expectations battle against individual ideals. The writer illustrates how provincial areas have limited perspectives through Main Street and demonstrates, through Babbitt, how consumer-oriented middle-class culture becomes meaningless. In Arrowsmith, the author critiques scientific research turned commercial, while It Can’t Happen Here illustrates the potential of fascist rule to gain power. Through his application of satire and realism, Sinclair Lewis reveals how American society creates psychological and ethical dilemmas for individuals seeking honest living. Through his writings, he makes a portrayal of society that functions both as an expression of American life and an evaluation of its fundamental flaws. The research examines how the author utilizes his characters as a means to address his stance on social justice topics, including class disparities, institutional misconduct, and personal identity corruption. Through his ongoing investigation of social standards, he continues to be an important literary figure in America who provides an enduring understanding of how people behave alongside social structures.