Summary

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Carrie Meeber embarks on a journey from Wisconsin to the bustling city of Chicago, armed with little more than a few dollars and her untouched beauty. Naïve and hopeful, she aims to find work while staying with her sister. On the train, she encounters Charles Drouet, a charismatic and ostentatious traveling salesman, who promises to visit her at her sister’s place.

Life with the Hansons

Upon arriving at her sister's home, Carrie is disillusioned by the stark reality. The Hansons, hard-working and frugal, lead a monotonous life devoid of joy. Carrie quickly realizes that Drouet's presence would not be welcome in this stifling environment. She decides to send him a note, asking him to refrain from visiting until she reaches out.

Struggles and Hardships

Determined to find employment, Carrie scours the city and finally secures a position in a shoe factory. However, most of her earnings are handed over to her sister and brother-in-law, leaving her with only fifty cents. Her situation worsens when she falls ill and loses her job, forcing her to pound the pavement day after day in search of work. With no success in sight, her family urges her to return to Wisconsin, as they see her as a financial burden.

A New Arrangement

One desperate day, Carrie decides to visit Drouet, sharing her woes. He generously offers her money, and though reluctant, she accepts. To maintain discretion, Drouet suggests renting a room for her clothes to avoid questioning from her family. Soon, Carrie moves in with him, comforted by his promise of marriage once his business matters are settled.

Entanglement with Hurstwood

During this time, Carrie is introduced to G. W. Hurstwood, a saloon manager blessed with a family and a good job. Despite the age difference, Hurstwood develops a deep infatuation with Carrie. When Drouet learns of their outings, he confronts Carrie, revealing Hurstwood's marital status. Angered by Drouet's omission, Carrie feels betrayed.

Complications Arise

Suspicion grows in Mrs. Hurstwood's mind about her husband's fidelity. Concurrently, Drouet arranges for Carrie to perform in a local play. Hurstwood can't resist attending, inviting friends and heightening his wife's doubts. Caught in a scandal, Hurstwood faces personal and financial ruin when his wife threatens divorce. Desperation drives him to steal from his employer, fleeing with Carrie under the ruse of an accident involving Drouet.

A New Life in New York

Fleeing to Montreal, Hurstwood is forced to return most of the stolen money but marries Carrie, who believes the union is legitimate. They settle in New York, where Hurstwood struggles to find work, eventually losing his investment in a tavern. As hope dwindles, their financial woes deepen, leading them to relocate to evade creditors.

Struggles and Ambitions

Driven by necessity, Carrie secures a position as a chorus girl and soon leaves Hurstwood to live independently with a friend. Her fortunes rise quickly as she gains recognition in the theater world. Embraced by high society, Carrie enjoys the luxuries and popularity that city life offers.

Hurstwood's Decline

Meanwhile, Hurstwood's situation deteriorates; he fails to secure employment and resorts to menial, dangerous jobs. Eventually, he falls into poverty, living in flophouses and begging. During a chance encounter, Carrie provides him money, now aware of his theft and the sacrifice he made to spare her feelings.

Carrie's Success and Melancholy

Although acclaimed and affluent, Carrie experiences an underlying dissatisfaction. Her career opportunities broaden, including performances overseas. Unbeknownst to her, Hurstwood passes away and is buried in anonymity. As she departs for London, Hurstwood’s former family arrives in the city, thriving due to a divorce settlement that secured their future.

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