Babbitt. By Sinclair Lewis FULL Audiobook
"Babbitt" by Sinclair Lewis is a satirical novel that delves into the complexities of American middle-class life during the early 20th century. Through the lens of its protagonist, George F. Babbitt, the novel critiques the vacuity of conformist values and materialism prevalent in post–World War I culture in the United States.

Summary:

Set in the fictional Midwestern city of Zenith, the story revolves around George F. Babbitt, a 46-year-old real estate broker. Despite enjoying the comforts of middle-class prosperity, Babbitt is profoundly dissatisfied with his life. He yearns for something more, something beyond the mundane routines that define his existence.

Babbitt's family consists of his three children—Verona, Ted, and Tinka—and his devoted yet dowdy wife, Myra. His closest friend, Paul Riesling, shares similar discontent. Riesling, once an aspiring professional violinist, now leads an average middle-class life. His wife, Zilla, constantly nags him, and their marriage is fraught with tension.

In search of escape, Babbitt and Riesling take a vacation to Maine, hoping to break free from their monotonous routines. However, their newfound freedom is short-lived, and they return to their roles as middle-aged married men.

As Babbitt's dissatisfaction grows, he begins to rebel against social conventions. When he discovers Riesling's affair, he preaches about maintaining social standing, while Riesling defends seeking comfort elsewhere. Soon, Riesling's frustration boils over, leading to a tragic incident: he shoots his wife and receives a prison sentence.

Babbitt's rebellion intensifies when he meets the attractive widow, Tanis Judique. She becomes his "fairy girl," and they embark on an affair. Simultaneously, Babbitt becomes critical of his conservative friends' opinions. When a general strike threatens Zenith, he supports some of the strikers' claims, shocking his social circle.

Myra, Babbitt's wife, becomes suspicious of his activities upon her return from nursing her sick sister. Babbitt finally admits to the affair, blaming her for his actions. However, disillusionment sets in when he realizes that Tanis' life is just as conventional as his own.

In the end, Babbitt remains a staunch conformist, unwilling to challenge the status quo. The novel serves as a scathing indictment of middle-class American values, portraying "Babbittry" as adherence to a conformist, materialistic, and anti-intellectual way of life .

Lewis's exploration of Babbitt's inner turmoil and the societal pressures he faces resonates even today, making this satirical work a timeless critique of human nature and societal norms.
More: Babbitt, Sinclair Lewis, Audiobook
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Successful businessman, Conformity, Sheep
Striking workers, Safety, Unthinkingly
Solid, Financially ruined, Efficiency



00:00:00 30 - Chapter 30
00:23:18 31 - Chapter 31
00:38:57 32 - Chapter 32
01:00:52 33 - Chapter 33
01:21:34 34 - Chapter 34

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