Babbitt · Chapters

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Chapter companions for Babbitt by Sinclair Lewis.

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Chapter 1
Chapter I
George F. Babbitt awakens in his modern home in Floral Heights, Zenith, and goes through his morning routine with irritation and dissatisfaction. He dislikes his family, his business, and himself, but finds solace in the sight of the Second National Tower, which inspires his devotion to the religion of business. The chapter establishes his character as a prosperous but discontented real estate man, proud of his material possessions yet yearning for escape.
Chapter 2
The Good Citizens' League
This chapter describes the pervasive influence of the Good Citizens' League in the city of Zenith, a commercial hub. It details how the League, composed of prosperous citizens including businessmen and aristocrats, enforces social conformity and suppresses dissent. The League's activities include promoting the Open Shop (a front against union labor), an Americanization Movement to indoctrinate immigrants, and supporting organizations like the Y.M.C.A. and the American Legion. The chapter recounts incidents of violent suppression of socialists and a conscientious objector, with the League using its influence to control media narratives and protect its members.
Chapter 3
II
Babbitt returns to the Good Citizens' League, the Boosters' Club, and the church, seeking to restore his reputation and salvation. He visits Dr. Drew for spiritual counsel but is put off by the pastor's businesslike manner and the insincere piety of Sheldon Smeeth. Though he resumes attending church, he avoids the pastor afterward.
Chapter 4
III
Babbitt finds comfort in returning to his familiar social circles after Verona's wedding, enjoying the peace of his home and the camaraderie of the Boosters' Club.
Chapter 5
IV
At the Boosters' Club luncheon, President Willis Ijams playfully exposes George F. Babbitt's middle name 'Follansbee' as a joke, leading to good-natured ribbing from the members. Babbitt responds with a humorous speech, reaffirming his place within the group and the comfort of conformity.

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Chapter I

The Good Citizens' League

II

III

IV