"A Hazard of New Fortunes" is a novel by William Dean Howells, published in 1890. The novel explores the themes of social class, immigration, and the American Dream, and is set in late 19th-century New York City.
The novel follows the story of Basil March, a journalist and editor from Boston, who moves to New York City with his wife and two children to start a new life. The family struggles to adjust to the city's fast-paced and competitive environment, and they soon become involved in the lives of a group of characters from different social classes.
Through the characters' experiences, Howells examines the social and economic inequalities that existed in late 19th-century America, particularly the challenges faced by immigrants and the working class. The novel also explores the tensions between old and new values, as well as the conflicts between traditional American ideals and the emerging forces of industrialization and modernization.
Throughout the novel, Howells employs a realist style of writing, emphasizing the importance of accurate observation and detailed descriptions of everyday life. He also uses satire and irony to critique American society and its values.
Overall, "A Hazard of New Fortunes" is a powerful commentary on the social and economic conditions of late 19th-century America, and it remains a significant work of American literature to this day.
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