McTeague

Set in early 20th-century San Francisco, the story follows McTeague, a dentist whose life spirals into tragedy fueled by greed. Initially content with his friend Marcus, McTeague marries Trina, a lottery winner whose frugality ignites envy and desire among those around them. The novel starkly portrays the destructive impact of greed, leading to a series of gruesome deaths. Norris' work stands out for its social realism, offering a haunting reflection on human nature that resonates even a century later.