The Pushcart Peddlers: Page 1 Summary
The first page of The Pushcart Peddlers PDF introduces the setting, characters, and initial plot developments of this compelling drama. Set in New York City between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the play revolves around three distinct characters, each representing different facets of the immigrant experience and the American Dream.
Highlight: The play is set in New York City, a melting pot of cultures and a symbol of opportunity for immigrants during this period.
The main characters are:
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Cornelius J. Hollingsworth II: A Jewish immigrant from Russia who sells bananas from a pushcart. He is portrayed as arrogant, two-faced, and opportunistic, yet capable of offering help to others.
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Shimmel Shitzman: Another Russian immigrant who is characterized as poor, naive, and easily manipulated. He embodies the hopeful immigrant, believing wholeheartedly in the American Dream.
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Maggie Cutwell: A complex character who appears innocent but is described as aggressive, mistrustful, and dishonest. She represents the street-smart aspect of city life.
Definition: The American Dream is the belief that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve success and prosperity through hard work in the United States.
The plot unfolds as Shimmel meets Cornelius, who introduces him to the banana-selling business. Cornelius advises Shimmel to change his name to sound more English and to start his own business. Following this advice, Shimmel invests all his money in a pushcart.
Example: The advice to change one's name illustrates the pressure on immigrants to assimilate into American culture.
As the story progresses, Cornelius and Shimmel merge their businesses, with Cornelius claiming a larger share due to his supposed experience. They then encounter Maggie, a flower seller with aspirations of becoming an actress. Shimmel, impressed by Maggie's beauty, attempts to flirt with her and decides to become a theatrical producer to help fulfill her dream.
Quote: "Things happen fast in this country" p.9,l.18
This quote encapsulates the rapid pace of change and opportunity that immigrants associated with America during this period.
