Arrowsmith is often described as the first "scientific" novel. The books explores medical and scientific themes in a fictional way and it is difficult to think of an earlier book that does this. Although he was not a doctor, Sinclair Lewis's father was and he was greatly helped in the preparation of the manuscript by the science writer Paul de Kruif.
Arrowsmith is a novel by Sinclair Lewis, first published in 1925. It is a sweeping and complex narrative that explores the life of Martin Arrowsmith, an ambitious and idealistic young man who becomes a scientist. The novel is a critical examination of the American medical profession, the nature of scientific research, and the ethical dilemmas faced by those dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge.
The story follows Martin Arrowsmith from his childhood in a small town to his career as a medical doctor and scientist. After completing his studies, he embarks on a career in scientific research, working with renowned researchers, but he is continually disillusioned by the compromises, corruption, and commercial interests that shape the medical and pharmaceutical industries. Arrowsmith strives for purity in science and seeks to discover the truth, but he finds himself caught between personal ambition and the societal pressures of fame, money, and career advancement.
A central theme of the novel is the tension between idealism and practicality. Arrowsmith, who is passionate about his work and driven by a desire to contribute to the betterment of humanity, faces numerous challenges that force him to question the role of the individual in a world driven by larger social, political, and economic forces. The novel portrays Arrowsmith's internal struggle as he wrestles with the ethical implications of his work, particularly when he is pressured to work on commercialized medical treatments that are less about the pursuit of truth and more about profit.
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Categories: Fiction Health Historical