The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz by Mordecai Richler explores the Jewish immigrant experience, the impact of anti-Semitism, the relentless drive for success, and the corruption of the American dream. It’s a rags-to-riches story gone awry. Duddy is virtually penniless, but he believes he can obtain riches and secure a life of prosperity, as his experience as an immigrant is largely fueled by the belief that America holds opportunities for anyone to achieve success. As Duddy struggles to amass his fortune and obtain the land he so desires, he encounters setbacks and resorts to criminal actions to pursue his dream. The relentless pursuit of his dream is ultimately his downfall.

Richler was criticized for portraying negative Jewish stereotypes in the novel, but he denies that he intended to do so. What Richler clearly does, however, is satirize the Jewish experience as well as the experience of immigrants as a group. Moreover, he satirizes the corruption of the American dream. In the face of endless opportunities and in a country of riches, the dream of building a better life becomes the dream of material wealth. Like all immigrants, Duddy experiences opportunities to gain that wealth through corrupt activities—and he is willing to pursue his dream even at the expense of morality and honor.

The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz by Mordecai Richler explores the Jewish immigrant experience, the impact of anti-Semitism, the relentless drive for success, and the corruption of the American dream. It’s a rags-to-riches story gone awry. Duddy is virtually penniless, but he believes he can obtain riches and secure a life of prosperity, as his experience as an immigrant is largely fueled by the belief that America holds opportunities for anyone to achieve success. As Duddy struggles to amass his fortune and obtain the land he so desires, he encounters setbacks and resorts to criminal actions to pursue his dream. The relentless pursuit of his dream is ultimately his downfall.

Richler was criticized for portraying negative Jewish stereotypes in the novel, but he denies that he intended to do so. What Richler clearly does, however, is satirize the Jewish experience as well as the experience of immigrants as a group. Moreover, he satirizes the corruption of the American dream. In the face of endless opportunities and in a country of riches, the dream of building a better life becomes the dream of material wealth. Like all immigrants, Duddy experiences opportunities to gain that wealth through corrupt activities—and he is willing to pursue his dream even at the expense of morality and honor.