# Uncle Whittier Smail — Main Street character guide

> Uncle Whittier Smail in Main Street by Sinclair Lewis.

**Role:** minor

**Also known as:** Whittier, Uncle Whittier

**First appearance:** 0001-main-street

## Who they are

Carol's gruff, conservative uncle who disapproves of her ideas.

## In the story

### [II](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/main_street_se/chapters/ii)

Moves to Gopher Prairie, buys Ole Jenson's grocery, and constantly questions Carol's ideas and habits with a superior village smile.

### [I](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/main_street_se/chapters/i)

Uncle Whittier makes a rude comment about Carol's dress and complains about customers, contributing to Carol's irritation.

### [IV](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/main_street_se/chapters/iv)

Dismisses Carol's architectural preferences and advocates for a utilitarian home.

### [Chapter III](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/main_street_se/chapters/iii)

Uncle Whittier is harshly critical of Erik Valborg, calling him a milksop and condemning his appearance and occupation. He represents the narrow-mindedness of the older generation.

### [V](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/main_street_se/chapters/v)

Confers with Kennicott about household maintenance while they are away.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/main_street_se/characters/uncle_whittier
- Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/main_street_se
- All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/main_street_se/characters