The Jungle Chapter Summary & Analysis | Chapter 1

Chapter 1 Summary

The story begins by introducing a Lithuanian family en route to a family wedding reception being held in the Chicago stockyards (a wedding reception is called a veselija in Lithuania.) The character of Marija, who is in charge of details for her cousin's marriage, is introduced first. She is a tough woman, and as she scurries around making last-minute preparations, the sixteen year-old bride, Ona, makes her appearance. Ona has just married Jurgis, who is as tall and broad as Ona is small and delicate-boned.

This wedding reception is being held in the Chicago stockyards. Ona and her family do not have much money, but they hold fast to their Lithuanian tradition of a large wedding party. The food and music are plentiful and no one is denied entry to the reception. Ona's stepmother Elzbieta is there, and she is helping to serve food.

There is lively music by a...
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