For a three-act plot analysis, put on your screenwriter’s hat. Moviemakers know the formula well: at the end of Act One, the main character is drawn in completely to a conflict. During Act Two, she is farthest away from her goals. At the end of Act Three, the story is resolved.
Act I
Small-town gal Carrie Meeber moves to Chicago and her life really starts to get exciting: She moves in with Drouet, develops a passion for acting, and starts up an affair with Hurstwood.
Act II
Carrie learns the truth about Hurstwood's deception, but they nevertheless end up getting hitched and moving to NYC. Their marriage disintegrates and they hover on the brink of poverty.
Act III
Carrie moves out and becomes a wealthy (but lonely) Broadway star as Hurstwood is forced to live on the streets and ultimately kills himself.