Babbitt (novel)

Babbitt is a satirical novel by Sinclair Lewis, published in 1922. It centers on George F. Babbitt, a real estate broker in the fictional Midwestern city of Zenith. The novel explores the conformist culture of the American middle class during the 1920s, particularly the pressures to adhere to societal norms regarding business, politics, and social life.

Babbitt is initially portrayed as a staunch supporter of the status quo, embracing boosterism and conservative values. He enthusiastically participates in local civic organizations and champions the American Dream, often repeating platitudes and slogans. However, as the story progresses, Babbitt experiences a growing sense of dissatisfaction and alienation from his superficial existence.

He embarks on a period of rebellion, questioning his beliefs and seeking fulfillment outside the confines of his prescribed role. This rebellion includes a brief dalliance with progressive politics and a flirtation with an unconventional woman. Ultimately, however, Babbitt retreats from his subversive impulses and returns to his familiar, albeit unfulfilling, life.

The novel critiques the homogenization of American culture, the emphasis on material success, and the suppression of individuality. Babbitt's struggles reflect the anxieties and contradictions inherent in the pursuit of the American Dream during a period of rapid social and economic change. The term "Babbitt" has since entered the English lexicon as a derogatory term for a person who is complacent, conformist, and narrowly materialistic, especially one who uncritically embraces middle-class values. The novel is considered a significant work of American literature, offering a critical commentary on the social and cultural landscape of the early 20th century.