In his novel "An American Tragedy", Theodore Dreiser presents characters with various pychological disorders. This research paper will focus on the narcissism of selected characters in that novel. Firstly, the term narcissism and typical symptoms will be explained. Secondly, the most important characters in the novel will be analysed. Lastly, I will try to explain possible reasons for Dreiser's viewpoints and describe his social background.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- I. Introduction
- II. An Explanation of the Term Narcissism
- A. Origin of the Term
- B. The Symptoms of Narcissism
- C. The Cause of Narcissism
- III. Main Part: Narcissism in Theodore Dreiser's Novel An American Tragedy
- A. Clear Cases of Narcissism: Hortense Briggs, Sondra Finchley, Gilbert Griffiths
- B. Probable Cases of Narcissism: Clyde Griffiths, Clyde`s parents, Reverend McMillan
- C. No Narcissism: Roberta Alden, District Attorney Mason
- IV. Summary
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This research paper aims to analyze the presence of narcissistic personality disorder in selected characters of Theodore Dreiser’s novel An American Tragedy. It begins by explaining the term narcissism and its typical symptoms, then examines key characters for signs of narcissistic behavior. The paper concludes by exploring potential reasons behind Dreiser’s portrayal of these characters and analyzing his social background.
- Narcissistic personality disorder
- Character analysis of An American Tragedy
- Theodore Dreiser’s social background
- Possible reasons for Dreiser’s viewpoints
- The origin and development of narcissism
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
Chapter I provides an introduction to the research paper and its focus on narcissism in An American Tragedy. Chapter II delves into the term narcissism, explaining its origin in Greek mythology, outlining the symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder, and exploring potential causes. Chapter III examines specific characters in Dreiser’s novel, highlighting those who exhibit clear narcissistic tendencies, probable cases, and those without discernible narcissistic behavior.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This research paper focuses on the concept of narcissism, exploring its origins, symptoms, and potential causes. It analyzes the characters in Theodore Dreiser’s An American Tragedy, particularly those exhibiting narcissistic traits. The paper examines the author’s portrayal of these characters and explores the potential influence of his social background on his perspective. Key terms include narcissistic personality disorder, egocentrism, self-importance, social background, and literary analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which characters in "An American Tragedy" show narcissistic traits?
The analysis identifies Hortense Briggs, Sondra Finchley, and Gilbert Griffiths as clear cases of narcissism.
Is Clyde Griffiths considered a narcissist?
Clyde Griffiths is analyzed as a "probable" case of narcissism, influenced by his social ambitions and lack of empathy for Roberta Alden.
What are typical symptoms of narcissism discussed in the paper?
Symptoms include an inflated sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others.
How does Dreiser's background influence the novel's characters?
The paper explores how Dreiser’s own social background and observations of the "American Dream" shaped his portrayal of ego-driven characters.
Which characters are identified as NOT being narcissistic?
Roberta Alden and District Attorney Mason are highlighted as characters who do not exhibit narcissistic personality disorder.
- Quote paper
- M. A. Oliver Steinert-Lieschied (Author), 2003, Narcissism in Dreisers "An American Tragedy", Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/145302
