The novel In Cold Blood, takes place in Holcomb, Kansas around the time of 1959 to the 1960s. During that time some states still used hanging as a form of execution. Dick and Perry both received the death penalty for the murder of the Clutter family. And it was carried out through hanging, which was considered an acceptable form of execution at the time.
There is also more than one idea of the American dream present in this novel. The Clutter family along with the other families of Kansas, wanted to feel safe and secure in their homes, along with feeling financially comfortable. Dick and Perry on the other hand wanted to have lots of money and be able to do whatever they want without consequences.
My idea of the American dream is to get an enjoyable job, something that is not in a cubicle. It is also to graduate high school and eventually get a college degree.
After reading this novel, I realized that there is at least one other thing apart of my idea of the American dream. It is to be able to feel safe and secure in my home. This includes not having to worry about someone breaking in and hurting me or my family.
