The American Dream in The Jungle

In the beginning of The Jungle by Upton Sinclair, Jurgis shows us his perspective of the "American Dream." He comes to America thinking he can be a big asset in the system of labor and that he can thrive on it. In chapter 2, he is described as someone that every boss wants to get their hands on. Because of this, he has pride and faith in himself, as does his family, and he is hopeful in accomplishing the "American Dream."

To me, what is so sad about the novel is that I got the feeling this dream is never really achievable. If you can't attain it by working hard, how do you attain it? Luck? I feel that in addition to Sinclair's exposing of the wrongs in the meat packing industry, he exposed the unfortunate fate of it's victims. Jurgis' story is a common one and the ending is usually the same. A family succumbs to prostitution or begging because their jobs, if they attain one, are not looking for their best interest.

Regardless, I left with a feeling that this dream is unattainable for most immigrants. I am developing my understanding of the term catharsis, but perhaps this is it.