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Overview

“Paul’s Case: A Study in Temperament”, a short story by Willa Cather, was first published in 1905. The story follows Paul, a teenager from Pittsburgh who is unhappy with his middle-class life and dreams of escaping to a more glamorous existence. His rebellious temperament leads him down a self-destructive path as he indulges in fantasies of wealth and glamor. Cather’s narrative explores themes of alienation and the clash between societal norms and individual desires, offering a poignant critique of American materialism and conformity. 

Explore a plot summary, an in-depth analysis of Paul, and important quotes.

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