# Chapter XXXIX explained — Main Street

> Chapter companion for Main Street by Sinclair Lewis.

## What happens

Carol returns to Gopher Prairie after her time in Washington, D.C., and gradually resigns herself to the town's provincialism, finding a measure of contentment in her role as wife and mother.

## Themes in this chapter

### Conformity vs. Individuality

Carol's return and acceptance of Gopher Prairie life highlights the tension between her individual desires and the pressure to conform.

### The Village Virus

Carol's eventual resignation to the town's narrow-mindedness exemplifies the 'village virus' that stifles ambition and change.

## Character check-ins

### Carol Kennicott

Returns to Gopher Prairie and begins to accept her life there.

### Dr. Will Kennicott

Welcomes Carol back and continues his medical practice.

### Hugh Kennicott

Carol's son, who is growing up in Gopher Prairie.

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/main_street_se/chapters/xxxix
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/main_street_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/main_street_se/chapters