Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates masterfully dissects suburban malaise and the struggle for authentic self-identity. Praised for its unflinching realism and rich character development, critics laud its piercing insights into marital turmoil. However, some find its bleak outlook overly pessimistic and the prose occasionally dense. Overall, a compelling but somber read.

A reader who appreciates complex character studies and critiques of suburban life will relish Revolutionary Road by Richard Yates. Fans of Richard Ford's Independence Day or John Updike's Rabbit, Run will find similar themes of existential dissatisfaction and the search for meaning.

Richard Yates's Revolutionary Road explores the lives of Frank and April Wheeler, a young couple with two children who move to a Connecticut suburb. Discontent with their mundane existence, they plan to move to France for a fresh start. However, their relationship unravels due to professional and personal conflicts, ultimately leading to tragic consequences. The story critiques the conformist pressures of 1950s American society. The narrative addresses themes of abortion and mental health.

Melancholic / Contemplative / Dark / Emotional / Unnerving

- Revolutionary Road was Richard Yates’ debut novel, published in 1961, and despite receiving critical acclaim, it was not a commercial success at the time.
- The novel was a finalist for the National Book Award in 1962, highlighting its immediate impact and recognition in the literary world.
- The 2008 film adaptation of Revolutionary Road, starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet, significantly renewed interest in Yates' work and led to a resurgence in the book's popularity.

Richard Yates

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Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore Revolutionary Road and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Revolutionary Road Summary and Study Guide

Background

Revolutionary Road Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1, Chapters 1-4

Revolutionary Road Part 1, Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 5-7

Revolutionary Road Part 1, Chapters 5-7 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 1-3

Revolutionary Road Part 2, Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 4-6

Revolutionary Road Part 2, Chapters 4-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 1-5

Revolutionary Road Part 3, Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 6-9

Revolutionary Road Part 3, Chapters 6-9 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Revolutionary Road Character Analysis

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Themes

Revolutionary Road Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Revolutionary Road Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Revolutionary Road Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Revolutionary Road Essay Topics

Revolutionary Road

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Revolutionary Road?

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Book Details