The American | Quotes

From the beginning, Christopher Newman is presented as a prime example of an American. He is open to opportunity and without the many prejudices common to Europeans. He is at his own disposal, not subject to the desires of others; he is self-sufficient and confident. This makes it difficult for him to understand that his experience is not universal.

Newman describes the way a perfect wife will complete his life. He sees this perfect wife not as a human being but as an object: a beautiful statue that sits atop the monument of his other possessions.

His insistence on this flawless ideal, and of viewing Claire as fulfilling it, makes it impossible for him to really understand her.

Newman's commitment to being his own man, not influenced by others' expectations or pressures, isn't just a personal preference. It is the foundation of his moral code. He finds it not just uncomfortable, but contemptible and immoral, to bow to others' wishes.

One important aspect of the friendship between Valentin and Newman is their completely opposite natures. They are "too different to quarrel." Valentin is from an old noble family, with traditions and expectations, while Newman is a man without family and without external expectations.

Valentin bemoans the fact that his family, who take themselves so seriously, restrict his freedom. He envies Newman's situation, although when presented with the opportunity to leave his family and way of life and become a "new man" in America he chooses to retreat into traditional behaviors instead.

Responding to Urbain de Bellegarde's question about being "noble," Newman misunderstands Urbain's meaning and applies the word to himself with a different meaning.

Newman insists on a narrative in which Claire and he are in love, and because they are in love they will marry and live happily ever after. Claire seems to accept this narrative outwardly because Newman is so invested in it. But her lack of real enthusiasm is meaningful: after she breaks it off she does admit that she should have warned him off more vigorously. Her passivity does more harm than good in the end.

Newman wants a reason for Claire's backing out of the engagement, but her answer—that her family has the authority to order her to do it—is unsatisfactory. He cannot understand why she does not defy them.

Pressed for more explanation of her refusal to follow through on the marriage, Claire sums up her conflict. Her family pride makes her deceptive, and her lack of personal pride makes her willing to betray his trust.

Newman's view of the Carmelite convent is not encouraging. The wall is high and devoid of any sign of life. This view convinces him that Claire is utterly lost to him, as much as if she were dead. His life, such as it is, must go on without her.