In Sinclair Lewis's "Main Street," the protagonist grapples with the societal norms and values of small-town America. The narrative focuses on the protagonist's struggle against the conformity and mediocrity that define the town, leading to feelings of isolation and frustration. The question posed, "What are these unheard of sins you condemn so much - and like so well?" highlights the hypocrisy and judgment present in the community, as it challenges individuals to reflect on their own moral stances and the societal pressures they impose on others.
This quote encapsulates the essence of the conflict within the novel, as it urges readers to consider the nature of sin and the arbitrary standards of morality. The protagonist's journey serves as a critique of small-town life, suggesting that the true sins may lie in the unexamined prejudices and the tendency to uphold superficial values. By questioning the social fabric of Main Street, Lewis invites a deeper exploration of what it means to live authentically in a world of expectations.