The Rise of Silas Lapham
“The Rise of Silas Lapham” by William Dean Howells is a novel that intricately examines the complexities of moral choices and business success. The protagonist, Silas Lapham, amasses wealth through the paint trade but encounters numerous challenges in both his career and personal life, exposing conflicts of values in 19th-century American society.
About This Ebook
This novel delves into the transformation of Silas Lapham from a poor farmer to a successful businessman. Despite achieving significant commercial success, Lapham lacks cultural refinement and social standing, leading to feelings of inadequacy in social circles. Additionally, family conflicts and his relationship with the Corey family exacerbate his predicament. Through a realistic approach, the novel portrays the social classes, moral concepts, and human frailties of the time in America.