Arrowsmith · Chapter
XXXVI explained
Martin Arrowsmith returns to New York as a celebrated hero after the St.
What happens
Martin Arrowsmith returns to New York as a celebrated hero after the St. Hubert plague, but finds himself increasingly uncomfortable with the social and professional expectations thrust upon him. He marries Joyce Lanyon, yet struggles with the constraints of high society and the loss of his scientific purpose, ultimately deciding to abandon the McGurk Institute for a simpler, more authentic life in the wilderness with Terry Wickett.
Themes in this chapter
The Cost of Ambition
Martin's rise to fame and marriage to Joyce Lanyon come at the cost of his scientific integrity and personal freedom, leading him to abandon it all.
Individual vs. Society
Martin's choice to leave the McGurk Institute and high society for the wilderness underscores the conflict between personal fulfillment and societal expectations.
Characters to notice
- Martin Arrowsmith
Returns to New York as a hero, marries Joyce Lanyon, and ultimately abandons the institute for the wilderness.
- Joyce Lanyon
Marries Martin Arrowsmith and represents the high society life that Martin finds suffocating.
- Terry Wickett
Joins Martin in his decision to leave the institute and pursue a simpler life of research in the wilderness.
- Rippleton Holabird
Director of the McGurk Institute, represents the institutional and social pressures Martin seeks to escape.
- Gustaf Sondelius
Mentioned in memory as a fallen comrade from the St. Hubert plague.
Key passages
“He was a hero, but he was not happy.”
Despite being celebrated, Martin felt unfulfilled.
Highlights the theme of the cost of ambition.
“He wanted to get away from all this—from the whole thing.”
Martin desired to escape his current life entirely.
Reflects Martin's growing disillusionment with society.