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This article presents a critique of "A Hazard of New Fortunes," a novel by William Dean Howells. Critics have been divided over the nature of Berthold Lindau, one of the characters of the book. Some see him as a mouthpiece for Howells' own political views, others view him as a parody or a dangerous advocate of violence. The author, based on recently discovered illustrations, contends Lindau is Jewish and represents the millions of immigrants coming to America during the 1880s. This counters traditional criticism that claimed Howells was indifferent to his Jewish characters.