Each character in Dreiser's Sister Carrie pursues their personal vision of the "American Dream" promised by a flourishing and prosperous democratic society. Carrie, a young woman from a rural area, arrives in Chicago with dreams of achieving a life of luxury. She imagines herself wearing fashionable clothes, visiting vibrant places, and socializing with stylish individuals, convinced that people outside her Midwestern town have already attained this elevated status. Drouet, too, has his interpretation of the American Dream. Having reached a certain level of success, he dresses to reflect it. He visits the city's popular venues and has built relationships with influential figures. Yet, he continues to seek additional symbols of his dream, such as an attractive partner and a home of his own.

Hurstwood already possesses a partner, a well-established home, a family, and a respectable job. However, he yearns for more. He is aware that his employers exclude him from making critical decisions, and he realizes that his friends value him for his position rather than his character. He longs for love, acknowledgment, and increased prestige.

Carrie and Hurstwood experience significant transformations throughout the novel. Although these changes unfold gradually, they have immediate and notable effects. Carrie's journey takes her from being an innocent country girl to becoming a glamorous actress. Along the way, she leaves a disillusioned sister, a resentful suitor, and a broken man in her past. On the other hand, Hurstwood transitions from a respected and trusted businessman, husband, and father to a destitute street beggar. In his wake, he leaves behind employers he has stolen from, a dysfunctional family, and a self-satisfied woman.

Hurstwood makes a crucial decision that significantly alters the trajectory of his life. Although every decision carries consequences, these can be either beneficial or harmful. Hurstwood's decision to steal money from his employer's safe triggers his decline, eventually resulting in his suicide.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the United States experienced a substantial surge in industrial development, leading to a time of prosperity. Factories flourished, creating numerous job opportunities. While those in management and other professional roles enjoyed substantial incomes, factory workers endured low wages and long working hours. This created a pronounced gap between the wealthy and the impoverished.

Carrie hails from a lower-middle-class family and is determined to improve her social standing. In contrast, her sister’s family continues to live the same difficult life that Carrie has always known. They lack both the time and the financial means for leisure pursuits. Carrie dreams of achieving a better life for herself.

In Sister Carrie, the distinction between social classes is strikingly clear. People's clothing, their homes, and their activities sharply distinguish the wealthy from the poor. The affluent wear fashionable apparel and attend highbrow art events, while the less fortunate wear factory-produced garments and jeans, feeling lucky to visit the penny arcade or the local dance hall. The final chapter powerfully illustrates Hurstwood’s last days, providing a vivid portrayal of the harsh realities faced by the most destitute.

Experiences significantly influence the formation of an individual's identity. Carrie's evolution from the start to the end of the novel is driven by how she responds to various experiences. Initially, when Carrie boards the train in Columbia City, she sits demurely, avoiding eye contact with the man nearby. Despite having certain moral reservations, she hesitates to acknowledge Drouet's presence. Nevertheless, she quickly engages in conversation and makes direct eye contact when she perceives his interest. From that point forward, Carrie allows herself to act in ways that serve her best interests. For instance, moving out of her sister's...