Dodsworth · Question
How does Dodsworth develop the theme of American Identity and Expatriation?
Answer
Dodsworth by Sinclair Lewis develops American Identity and Expatriation across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The novel explores the tension between American and European values through Sam and Fran Dodsworth's experiences abroad, examining what it means to be American when confronted with foreign cultures and the criticism of American life.
Sam and Fran's journey to Europe highlights the tension between American pragmatism and European sophistication.
Fran and Lockert debate American and English snobbery, with Fran expressing disdain for typical American tourists while Lockert critiques both nations.
Sam's emotional reaction to seeing England as 'Mother England' and his sense of belonging to a land of literary and ancestral heritage.
Evidence in the book
- Dodsworth
Sam and Fran's journey to Europe highlights the tension between American pragmatism and European sophistication.
- V
Fran and Lockert debate American and English snobbery, with Fran expressing disdain for typical American tourists while Lockert critiques both nations.
- VI
Sam's emotional reaction to seeing England as 'Mother England' and his sense of belonging to a land of literary and ancestral heritage.
- VII
Sam feels alienated in London, struggling with language, customs, and a sense of belonging.
- VIII
Sam grapples with his American identity in London, feeling alienated and questioning the value of adapting to European ways.
- IX
Sam feels like an outsider in the English setting, reflecting on how he is perceived as possibly English and grappling with his own sense of belonging.
- Chapter X
Sam feels like an outsider among the British aristocracy, struggling with cultural differences and his own American identity.
- XI
Sam and Fran confront anti-American sentiment at the Ouston dinner, with Sam defending his nationality and Fran rejecting the idea of becoming an expatriate.
