An American Tragedy · Chapter
Book III explained
Clyde Griffiths is arrested, tried, and convicted for the murder of Roberta Alden.
What happens
Clyde Griffiths is arrested, tried, and convicted for the murder of Roberta Alden. Despite appeals and a plea for clemency, he is sentenced to death and executed.
Themes in this chapter
Justice and Class Bias
Clyde's trial exposes how his lower-class background and the Griffiths family's wealth affect the proceedings and public perception.
Determinism vs. Free Will
Clyde's fate seems sealed by his past choices and social circumstances, raising questions about his agency in the events leading to his execution.
Characters to notice
- Clyde Griffiths
The protagonist, arrested and tried for Roberta's murder, ultimately convicted and executed.
- Roberta Alden
The victim whose drowning leads to Clyde's arrest and trial.
- Orville Mason
The district attorney who prosecutes Clyde with fervor.
- Alvin Belknap
One of Clyde's defense attorneys.
- Reuben Jephson
Clyde's other defense attorney, who attempts to save him.
Key passages
“The state of New York versus Clyde Griffiths.”
The legal case against Clyde Griffiths is formally initiated.
Opening of the trial.
“He was not guilty—he was not guilty!”
Clyde insists on his innocence despite the evidence.
Clyde's internal denial during the trial.
“The jury returned a verdict of guilty.”
The jury finds Clyde guilty of murder.
Climax of the trial.
“Clyde Griffiths was executed at 11:59 p.m.”
Clyde is put to death by the state.
Final event of the novel.