42 pages • 1 hour read
John SteinbeckThe Winter Of Our Discontent
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1961A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Winter of Our Discontent centers on Ethan Hawley, a grocery store clerk in New Baytown, New York. Pressured by family and friends to restore his family’s wealth, Ethan faces moral dilemmas and makes questionable choices to regain status, ultimately grappling with the consequences of his actions and the example he sets for his children. Contains themes of suicide, substance abuse, and racial and ethnic bias.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
John Steinbeck's The Winter of Our Discontent captivates with its exploration of moral complexities in post-war America. Praise centers on Steinbeck's masterful character development and poignant social critique. However, some find the pacing slow and the protagonist's ethical dilemmas overly introspective, potentially alienating readers. Overall, it's a thought-provoking and impactful read.
Who Should Read The Winter Of Our Discontent?
Readers who would enjoy John Steinbeck's The Winter of Our Discontent are typically drawn to stories exploring moral dilemmas, personal transformation, and societal critique. Fans of F. Scott Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby and Sinclair Lewis's Main Street will appreciate Steinbeck's nuanced examination of American culture and values.
RecommendedReading Age
18+yearsLexile Level
770L