The figure of the exceptional worker and its reflection of the American perception of normalcy in Davis "Life in the Iron Mills"

The essay delves into the exceptional worker depicted in Davis's realist novella, exploring its implications for understanding contemporary American views on normalcy and class identity. By analyzing this character, the work highlights how societal expectations and class structures shape perceptions of individuality and worth in 19th-century America. Through this lens, the essay offers insights into the broader themes of labor and identity within the context of American literature.