Jennie Gerhardt follows the life of an impoverished young woman whose struggle for survival leads her into a series of social transgressions that define her existence. Jennie, a woman of humble origins, attempts to navigate the rigid class structures of early twentieth-century America while grappling with the consequences of her choices. She faces constant opposition from societal expectations, moral judgment, and the economic instability that threatens her family. The narrative employs a third-person perspective to observe the deterministic forces of environment and circumstance that shape her path.

Readers and critics frequently note the somber, deterministic tone that permeates the narrative. Discussion often centers on Dreiser's unflinching portrayal of the social pressures that constrain Jennie's agency throughout her life. Many observers highlight the author's commitment to realism, noting that the pacing reflects the slow, often grinding nature of the protagonist's circumstances. The work is widely recognized for its empathetic yet objective look at the moral complexities of the era, balancing character development with a broader critique of societal norms. Readers often find the lack of traditional resolution to be a defining feature of the book's lasting impact.