McTeague

Set in San Francisco, the novel follows McTeague, a simple yet strong dentist, as he navigates love, greed, and the darker sides of human nature. His tumultuous relationship with Trina, a woman he marries for her fortune, spirals into obsession and violence. Themes of social Darwinism and the struggle for survival are woven throughout, showcasing the impact of environment and personal choices on fate. Norris’s vivid portrayal of characters and their moral decay offers a stark commentary on American society at the turn of the century.