The Age of Innocence

The Age of Innocence is a novel by Edith Wharton, first published in 1920. Set in the 1870s among New York City’s elite, it explores the constraints of societal expectations and the conflict between personal desire and social obligation. Key Points: Plot : The story follows Newland Archer, a young lawyer engaged to the respectable May Welland. His world is disrupted by the arrival of May’s cousin, Ellen Olenska, who is seeking a divorce and represents a threat to the rigid conventions of their social circle. Themes : The novel delves into themes of societal pressure, the struggle between passion and duty, and the illusion of innocence versus the reality of experience. Character Development : Newland Archer’s internal conflict and evolving perceptions of love and duty are central to the narrative, highlighting the personal cost of adhering to social norms. Social Critique : Wharton critiques the rigid and hypocritical nature of high society, examining how it stifles individual freedom and happiness. The Age of Innocence is celebrated for its rich characterizations, social commentary, and its portrayal of the complexities of love and duty within the constraints of a bygone era. 4o —- ISBN: 9798329189063