The Rise of Silas Lapham

In "The Rise of Silas Lapham," William Dean Howells masterfully explores the theme of social ascendance and the dichotomy between wealth and ethics in post-Civil War America. This novel, characterized by Howells' realist style, employs naturalistic dialogue and intricate character development to delve into the moral dilemmas faced by its titular character, Silas Lapham, a self-made businessman nav...