Erik Larson's book The Devil in the White City is full of magic and madness that shaped late 19th century society specific to Chicago. The issues that were addressed during this period and are addressed in this book are how Chicago was known early on for being the black city and how the city hoped that hosting the World's Fair would enhance its reputation. Second, the magic of a man named Daniel Burnham who brought to life the plans for the Chicago World's Fair and the obstacles he had overcome. Then, once the World's Fair ended, it made Chicago "the White City" with its dazzling designs and attractions that made it memorable. Then the madness of HH Holmes and how his evil deeds seemed to undermine the World's Fair and what happens there with his murders and betrayal taking over Chicago once his evil deeds were discovered. Finally, the events that occurred during the World's Fair are linked to the problems occurring in the late 19th century in the United States. The city of Chicago was in a state of desolation before hosting the World's Fair. The city of Chicago was nicknamed "the black city" (P.11) before hosting the 1893 fair that brought the city to life. Chicago was a city plagued by a lot of crime and death, so much so that young women might have been tempted to fall prey to the dangers of that city. Death was more common in Chicago than other cities at that time due to murders being so common in that city. The author points out that “You can drive off a sidewalk and be killed by the Chicago Limited” (P.12). This fact even struck fear into people who visited Chicago just for fun or the day before...... middle of paper...... the magic of Chicago, but also the dark madness of HH Holmes. This analysis of the book considers that the city of Chicago was "the black city", before it hosted the World's Fair. Secondly, the glorious magic of Daniel Burnham made this possible because of all his men he worked with. Then the city of Chicago at the time of the fair was a grand sight that people around the world would remember in history. Furthermore, the unfortunate spectacle of crimes and evil intentions committed by HH Holmes puts a black eye on the fair. Finally, the Fair and its connection to historical trends in 19th century America. The Devil in the White City is an important novel that tells of a great historical fair and a crime that occurred in the city of Chicago. The events that occurred during this period would form an important part of history..