The Pit · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for The Pit by Frank Norris.
Each chapter has a companion in the reader — open a free preview to see notes beside the text.
Chapter 1
Dedication
The author dedicates the book to his brother, Charles Tolman Norris, in memory of the imaginative stories and adventures they shared as boys.
Chapter 2
Principal Characters in the Novel
This chapter introduces the principal characters of the novel, including Curtis Jadwin, a capitalist and speculator; Sheldon Corthell, an artist; Landry Court, a broker's clerk; Samuel Gretry, a broker; Charles Cressler, a grain dealer; Mrs. Cressler, his wife; Laura Dearborn, protégé of Mrs. Cressler; Page Dearborn, her sister; and Mrs. Emily Wessels, aunt of Laura and Page.
Chapter 3
The Pit
The opening of the novel introduces the world of the Chicago wheat pit and the characters who inhabit it, setting the stage for the drama of speculation and ambition.
Chapter 4
I
The chapter introduces Laura Dearborn, her sister Page, and their Aunt Wess as they wait at the opera for the Cresslers, who are late. Laura spots Curtis Jadwin, a wealthy real estate investor, and after much hesitation, she boldly approaches him to resolve the situation. The chapter also provides background on Mr. Cressler's past as a speculator who lost his fortune in a wheat corner and now abhors speculation, and introduces Sheldon Corthell, an artist who has romantic interest in Laura.
Chapter 5
II
Laura Dearborn reflects on her past in Barrington, Massachusetts, and her decision to move to Chicago after her father's death. She recalls her education, her love of literature, and her disdain for the narrow New England spirit. Encouraged by the Cresslers and Aunt Wess, she finally relocates to Chicago, where she is fascinated by the city's vibrant and overwhelming commercial life. The chapter also includes a conversation between Laura and Mrs. Cressler about Curtis Jadwin's interest in Laura, contrasting him with Sheldon Corthell, and ends with Laura and Page visiting their new home.
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