In the novel, Carrie searches for happiness. How does the novel define happiness? Do any of the other characters come close finding happiness? Is the novel too pessimistic in this respect?

Theater emerges as a critical element of Carrie’s evolution. She finds success on Broadway and attends the theater regularly. Using any of the four plays specifically mentioned in the novel, discuss how that play and its themes work with the novel’s themes.

Research the definition of a traditional tragic hero. Which character, Carrie or Hurstwood, better fits that definition?