Theodore Dreiser and the Anti-Progressive Drive

Theodore Dreiser appears, when noticed, as author of classic novels, Sister Carrie being most often cited as surviving publishers' abuse. Dreiser himself is perceived as a pioneer: awkward in prose, but honest in reporting his own and American life. Evidence in his papers and elsewhere reveals a secret life opposed to the Progressivism of his time, and requiring revaluation in light of changes in society and cultural standards.