# Clyde Griffiths — An American Tragedy character guide > Clyde Griffiths in An American Tragedy by Theodore Dreiser. **Role:** major **Also known as:** Clyde, Griffiths, Mr. Clyde Griffiths, young Griffiths, Mr. Griffiths **First appearance:** 0000-book-i ## Snapshot A mission-child turned bellhop whose hungry imagination fixes on wealth, fine clothes, and the right girl, certain that somewhere a better life is waiting for him. ## Who they are Clyde grows up dragged from city to city by evangelist parents whose street-corner piety makes him a target for other children's scorn, and the shame of it hardens into a fierce, unformed ambition. He is emotional, romantic, and endlessly calculating about how he might better himself, yet he has no practical training and no one to guide him. His longing to escape the shabby world of his parents is the engine that will carry him into Lycurgus and into everything that follows. ## Relationships ### [Roberta Alden](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/characters/roberta_alden) _romantic_ Clyde's passionate but ultimately tragic affair with Roberta, a factory worker he impregnates and later considers murdering to pursue a wealthier match. ### [Hortense Briggs](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/characters/hortense_briggs) _romantic_ Clyde's infatuation with the flirtatious and manipulative Hortense, who uses him for gifts and attention without genuine affection. ### [Orville Mason](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/characters/orville_mason) _rivalry_ Orville Mason, the district attorney, is Clyde's relentless prosecutor who builds a case against him for Roberta's murder. ### [Gilbert Griffiths](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/characters/gilbert_griffiths) _family_ Clyde's wealthy and disdainful cousin, who treats him as an inferior and blocks his social advancement within the family business. ### [Sondra Finchley](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/characters/sondra_finchley) _romantic_ Clyde's obsessive pursuit of the beautiful, wealthy socialite Sondra, who represents his ticket to high society but ultimately abandons him. ### [Esta Griffiths](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/characters/esta_griffiths) _family_ Clyde's older sister, who shares a bond of poverty and family struggle, but whose own tragic romantic history foreshadows Clyde's fate. ### [Reuben Jephson](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/characters/reuben_jephson) _professional_ Reuben Jephson is Clyde's defense attorney, who works tirelessly to save him from the electric chair but struggles with Clyde's lies. ### [Alvin Belknap](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/characters/alvin_belknap) _professional_ Alvin Belknap, a skilled lawyer, joins Jephson as co-counsel for Clyde's defense, bringing legal expertise and a more pragmatic approach. ### [Emily Griffiths](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/characters/emily_griffiths) _family_ Clyde's devout and morally rigid mother, who tries to guide him but whose religious fervor creates distance and guilt. ### [Duncan McMillan](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/characters/duncan_mcmillan) _psychological_ Duncan McMillan, a prison chaplain, attempts to save Clyde's soul through religious conversion, creating a tense spiritual dependency. ### [Thomas Ratterer](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/characters/thomas_ratterer) _friendship_ Thomas Ratterer is a fellow bellhop and friend from Clyde's early days in Kansas City, representing his carefree, hedonistic past. ### [Violet Taylor](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/characters/violet_taylor) _social_ Violet Taylor is a minor acquaintance from Clyde's social circle, representing the working-class girls he casually interacts with. ## In the story ### [Book I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/book-i) Introduced as a restless youth from a poor family, he takes a job as a bellhop and becomes enamored with wealth and Hortense Briggs. ### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/i) The twelve-year-old eldest son, deeply embarrassed by the street preaching and determined to rebel against it. ### [Chapter II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/ii) Clyde is the central focus, depicted as a vain and ambitious youth who feels trapped by his family's poverty and religious mission, dreaming of a better life and envying the rich. ### [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/iii) Broods over Esta's disappearance, curious about life and ashamed of the scandal. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/iv) Clyde, now sixteen, is determined to escape his family's poverty and religious constraints. He works as a soda fountain assistant and secretly enjoys theater. He resists moving to Denver and seeks a better job at the Green-Davidson Hotel. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/v) Clyde is hired as a bellhop at the Green-Davidson Hotel, experiencing awe and excitement at the prospect of tips and independence. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/vi) Begins work as a bellhop at the Green-Davidson Hotel, experiencing a transformative encounter with wealth and luxury. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/vii) Begins work as a bellhop at the Green-Davidson, earning over six dollars on his first night. He is thrilled by the money and the luxurious environment, and is fascinated by the other bellhops and their stories. ### [VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/viii) Clyde lies to his mother about his tips and hours to keep more money for himself, buys new clothes, and decides to join the other bellhops at a late-night supper, asserting his independence. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/ix) Attends the dinner at Frissell's, feeling excited about his new social life but conflicted about the group's plans to visit a brothel. ### [Chapter X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/x) Clyde is introduced to a brothel by his coworkers; he is nervous, fascinated, and ultimately succumbs to temptation. ### [Chapter XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xi) Reflects on his first sexual adventure, feeling both shame and fascination. He begins visiting the Ratterer home and becomes infatuated with Hortense Briggs. ### [Chapter XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xii) Deeply infatuated with Hortense, he dresses elaborately for their date and feels both thrilled and tormented by her teasing and flirtatious behavior. ### [Chapter XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xiii) Discovers his sister Esta's predicament and feels a mix of shame, sympathy, and confusion about his family's situation. ### [Chapter XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xiv) Becomes more preoccupied with Hortense Briggs and the problem of the sexes; his attitude toward his sister Esta hardens as he rationalizes his own desires. ### [XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xv) Agrees to help Hortense buy a coat, borrowing money and hoping for sexual reward. ### [Chapter XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xvi) Lies to his mother about having money, prioritizing his pursuit of Hortense over helping his pregnant sister Esta. ### [Chapter XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xvii) Clyde is anxious about the stolen car but drawn by the chance to be with Hortense. He becomes jealous when Hortense dances with Sparser. ### [Chapter XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xviii) Jealous and emotionally vulnerable, Clyde confronts Hortense about flirting with Sparser, but ultimately succumbs to her manipulation. ### [XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xix) Clyde is panicked and confused after the accident, worried about losing his job, being arrested, and disgracing his family. ### [Book II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/book-ii) Arrives in Lycurgus to work for his uncle, begins to navigate social classes, and starts relationships with both Roberta and Sondra. ### [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/iii) Now twenty, more self-reliant and cautious, reflecting on his past and family. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/iv) Clyde is working as a bellhop at the Union League Club in Chicago when he learns his uncle Samuel Griffiths is staying there. He nervously introduces himself and secures a job offer at the collar factory, then travels to Lycurgus. ### [Chapter V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/v) Clyde is assigned to the shrinking room by his cousin Gilbert and feels both hopeful and humiliated by his new position. ### [Chapter VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/vi) Arrives in Lycurgus, secures a room on Thorpe Street, and begins work at his uncle's mill. He reflects on his past and his new surroundings. ### [VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/vii) Clyde is cautious and flattered by Dillard's attention, but wary of how his new relatives might perceive his actions. ### [Chapter VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/viii) Attends the church social with Dillard, is introduced as Samuel Griffiths' nephew, and begins a flirtation with Rita Dickerman. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/ix) Torn between his attraction to Rita and his resolve to avoid complications; feels inferior and uncertain about his place in Lycurgus. ### [Chapter X](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/x) Feels out of place and depressed after being introduced to the wealthy society of Lycurgus, acutely aware of his poverty and social inferiority. ### [Chapter XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xi) Dreams of high society, grows distant from Dillard and Rita, and is promoted to assistant foreman of the stamping room with a raise. ### [Chapter XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xii) Clyde is working at the factory, tempted by female workers but restrained by his promise to Gilbert. He meets Roberta Alden and is infatuated with her, and also sees Sondra Finchley at a parade, deepening his social ambitions. ### [Chapter XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xiii) Clyde is mentioned as Roberta's supervisor at the mill, and she finds him young, attractive, and interested in her. ### [Chapter XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xiv) Lonely and conflicted, Clyde is drawn to Roberta Alden despite the social taboos and his own aspirations for high society. ### [XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xv) Conflicted and lonely, Clyde is torn between his attraction to Roberta and his social ambitions. He spends his free time at lakes, learning to swim and canoe, and daydreams about high society. ### [Chapter XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xvi) Clyde is increasingly obsessed with Roberta and risks violating the factory's rules to pursue her. He arranges a secret meeting despite his fear of Gilbert's disapproval. ### [XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xvii) Waits for Roberta at the trysting place, reflects on his past with Hortense Briggs and Rita Dickerman, kisses Roberta and elicits her confession of love. ### [XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xviii) Eager and impatient to be with Roberta, he suggests various schemes for secret meetings, including using a church visit as a cover, which Roberta rejects. ### [Chapter XIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xix) Clyde is mentioned as the object of Roberta's affection and the reason for her secrecy. He encourages her to move to a new room for independence. ### [Chapter XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xx) Pressures Roberta for greater intimacy, becomes angry and sullen when she refuses, comparing her to Hortense Briggs. ### [Chapter XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxi) Deliberately ignores Roberta at work and flirts with other girls to pressure her into yielding; relents after receiving her note. ### [Chapter XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxii) Overcomes his scruples to begin a secret affair with Roberta, feeling a new sense of power and confidence, yet still dreaming of the Griffiths' social world. ### [XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxiii) Walking along Wykeagy Avenue, he is mistaken for Gilbert by Sondra, but after the confusion, he is invited into her car. He is deeply impressed by her and hopeful for future encounters. ### [Chapter XXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxiv) Receives the invitation and is ecstatic, dreaming of social elevation and distancing himself from Roberta. ### [XXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxv) Attends the Trumbull party, feels out of place but flattered by attention from Sondra and others. ### [Chapter XXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxvi) Attends the dinner and dance, charming the group and engaging in flirtatious conversation with Sondra. He feels both exhilarated and self-conscious about his social standing. ### [XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxvii) Clyde is torn between his attraction to Sondra and his obligations to Roberta, ultimately choosing to pursue Sondra's social invitations. ### [XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxviii) Feels torn between his old affection for Roberta and his new infatuation with Sondra; deliberately distances himself from Roberta. ### [Chapter XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxix) Mentioned as the object of Roberta's anxiety; she fears he is becoming indifferent and may be attracted to another girl. ### [Chapter XXX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxx) Rejoices in his social acceptance by the Griffiths and high society, seeing it as a victory over Gilbert's opposition. ### [Chapter XXXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxxi) Clyde returns late from a Christmas dinner with his uncle's family, lies to Roberta about his whereabouts, and struggles to manage her jealousy while being drawn to Sondra Finchley's world. ### [XXXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxxii) Navigates high society with limited means; becomes infatuated with Sondra and shares a kiss with her. ### [XXXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxxiii) Struggles with his guilt and desire to end his relationship with Roberta, while being increasingly captivated by Sondra and the promise of a better life. ### [XXXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxxiv) Desperate and anxious, Clyde seeks an abortifacient in Schenectady, using a false married-man story, but struggles with fear and moral qualms. ### [Chapter XXXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxxv) Torn between his affair with Sondra and the crisis with Roberta; seeks abortifacients and worries about his future. ### [XXXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxxvi) Nervously seeks help from Orrin Short to find a doctor for Roberta, fabricating a story about a workingman. ### [XXXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxxvii) Clyde secures the name of a doctor and encourages Roberta to visit him, showing nervousness about her backing out. ### [XXXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxxviii) Panicked and evasive, Clyde refuses Roberta's marriage proposal, fearing the loss of his social ambitions and his relationship with Sondra. ### [Chapter XXXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxxix) Torn between his love for Sondra and his obligation to Roberta; he deceives Roberta with false promises while dreaming of a wealthy life with Sondra. ### [Chapter XL](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xl) Torn between his love for Sondra and the demands of Roberta, he is horrified by the sight of Roberta's dilapidated home and contemplates running away again. ### [Chapter XLI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xli) Torn between Roberta's demands and his desire for Sondra; stalls Roberta by suggesting she go home to prepare a trousseau. ### [Chapter XLII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xlii) Reads the newspaper account of a drowning and begins to contemplate an accidental drowning as a solution to his problems with Roberta. ### [Chapter XLIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xliii) Desperately pleads with Sondra to elope; shows signs of mental breakdown as he faces the impossibility of his situation with Roberta. ### [Chapter XLIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xliv) Clyde is deeply conflicted, oscillating between horror at the thought of murder and a growing obsession with the idea of an accidental drowning as a way out of his predicament with Roberta. ### [XLV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xlv) Plagued by a diabolical inner voice urging murder; oscillates between horror and rationalization; receives Roberta's ultimatum and begins to plan her drowning. ### [XLVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xlvi) Meets Roberta at the station, feeling resentful and contemplating murder to escape his obligations to her. ### [XLVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xlvii) Clyde is tormented and indecisive as he executes his plan to murder Roberta at Big Bittern, experiencing visions and a crisis of will. ### [Book III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/book-iii) The protagonist, arrested and tried for Roberta's murder, ultimately convicted and executed. ### [Chapter II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/ii) Identified as the mysterious young man who fled the scene, matching the description of Clifford Golden. ### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/iv) Identified as the recipient of Roberta's letters; suspected by Mason of seduction and murder. ### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/v) The prime suspect; his card on the toilet set and his social position as a Griffiths nephew incriminate him. ### [VI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/vi) Flees the scene of Roberta's drowning, experiencing intense guilt, paranoia, and hallucinations of her ghost. ### [Chapter VII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/vii) Terrified and paranoid after Roberta's drowning, he tries to enjoy Sondra's company while hiding his wet suit and worrying about the three witnesses. ### [Chapter VIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/viii) Arrested by Deputy Kraut for Roberta's murder; attempts to flee but is captured. ### [IX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/ix) Arrested and interrogated by Mason; denies knowing Roberta despite overwhelming evidence. ### [Chapter X: Arrest and Imprisonment](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/x) Arrested and interrogated by Mason; transported to Bridgeburg jail; overwhelmed by despair and fear of execution. ### [Chapter XI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xi) Clyde is brought back to Big Bittern Lake by Mason and others to retrace his steps. He denies having a camera or tripod and remains silent about the events. ### [Chapter XII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xii) Arrested and held in jail, brooding over his situation and attempting to defend himself to Smillie, insisting he did not kill Roberta. ### [Chapter XIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xiii) Discussed as the accused; his weak explanations and incriminating circumstances are reviewed. ### [XIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xiv) Interrogated by Catchuman and later by Belknap; maintains his story that Roberta's death was accidental. ### [XV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xv) Clyde is the defendant, cooperating with his lawyers but conflicted about their deceptive tactics. ### [XVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xvi) The defendant whose actions and motives are being reinterpreted for the trial. ### [Chapter XVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xvii) Is in jail, indicted for murder; feels shame and fear about facing his mother; agrees with the Griffiths' wish to keep his parents in the background. ### [Chapter XVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xviii) Imprisoned and awaiting trial, Clyde oscillates between hope and despair, tormented by the loss of Sondra and the fear of execution. ### [The Trial Begins](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xix) The defendant, nervous and trying to appear nonchalant as he enters the courtroom. ### [XX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xx) The defendant, portrayed by the prosecution as a calculating seducer and murderer, sitting in court as Mason delivers the opening statement. ### [XXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxi) The defendant, on trial for Roberta's murder, faces a barrage of witnesses and evidence against him. ### [XXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxii) The defendant, whose actions and lies are exposed through witness testimony and evidence; he contemplates escape as the trial proceeds. ### [XXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxiii) Takes the witness stand, nervous and strained, but tries to appear calm as the defense begins its case. ### [Chapter XXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxiv) Testifies in his own defense, recounting his early life, the Kansas City accident, and his relationship with Roberta. ### [XXV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxv) The defendant on trial, subjected to aggressive cross-examination by Mason. ### [XXVI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxvi) The defendant, convicted of murder, now awaiting his fate in his cell. ### [Chapter XXVII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxvii) Clyde is convicted; his letters insisting on his innocence influence his family's belief in him. ### [XXVIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxviii) Sentenced to death but maintains his innocence in court; heartened by his mother's presence and faith; transferred to Auburn's death house. ### [XXIX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxix) Imprisoned in the death house, shaken by his mother's visit and his own guilt. ### [Chapter: XXX](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxx) Clyde is in prison, awaiting the outcome of his appeal, grappling with the terror and monotony of death row. ### [XXXI](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxxi) Lying on his cot in the death house, reading; lonely and troubled after Nicholson's execution; conflicted about religion. ### [XXXII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxxii) Clyde is in the death house, tormented by his past and the fear of execution, and begins to be influenced by the Reverend McMillan's religious appeals. ### [XXXIII](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxxiii) Confesses the truth about his plot and actions to Reverend McMillan, struggles with guilt and the fear of execution. ### [XXXIV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/xxxiv) Clyde reflects on his mother's lack of understanding, his own guilt, and his impending execution. ### [Souvenir](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/chapters/souvenir) The young boy, referred to as Russell in the chapter, who is part of the street preaching family and asks for a dime for ice cream. ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/characters/clyde_griffiths - Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se - All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/an_american_tragedy_se/characters