The Age Of Innocence

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"Dutiful Newland Archer, an eligible young man from New York high society, is about to announce his engagement to May We... (more)

"Dutiful Newland Archer, an eligible young man from New York high society, is about to announce his engagement to May Welland, a suitable match from a good family, when May{u2019}s cousin, the beautiful and exotic Countess Ellen Olenska, is introduced into their circle. The Countess brings with her an aura of European sophistication and a hint of perceived scandal, having left her husband and claimed her independence. Her worldliness, disregard for society{u2019}s rules, and air of unapproachability attract the sensitive Newland, despite his enthusiasm about a marriage to May and the societal advantages it would bring. Almost against their will, Newland and Ellen develop a passionate bond, and a classic love triangle takes shape as the three young people find themselves drawn into a poignant and bitter conflict between love and duty."--Amazon.com. (less)

"Newland Archer, gentleman lawyer and heir to one of New York City's best families, is happily anticipating a highly des... (more)

"Newland Archer, gentleman lawyer and heir to one of New York City's best families, is happily anticipating a highly desirable marriage to the sheltered and beautiful May Welland. Yet he finds reason to doubt his choice of bride after the appearance of Countess Ellen Olenska, May's exotic, beautiful 30-year-old cousin, who has been living in Europe."--Amazon.com. (less)

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When the Countess Ellen Olenska returns from Europe, fleeing her brutish husband, her rebellious independence and passio... (more)

When the Countess Ellen Olenska returns from Europe, fleeing her brutish husband, her rebellious independence and passionate awareness of life stir the educated sensitivity of Newland Archer, already engaged to be married to her cousin May Welland, "that terrifying product of the social system he belonged to and believed in, the young girl who knew nothing and expected everything." As the consequent drama unfolds, Edith Wharton's sharp ironic wit and Jamesian mastery of form create a disturbingly accurate picture of men and women caught in a society that denies humanity while desperately defending "civilization". (less)

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Provides in-depth analysis of the literary work The Age of Innocence, as well as its importance and critical reception. ... (more)

Provides in-depth analysis of the literary work The Age of Innocence, as well as its importance and critical reception. Includes a chronology of the life and works of the author. (less)

A portrayal of New York society in the 1870's where money was important but counted less than manners and morals. (more)

A portrayal of New York society in the 1870's where money was important but counted less than manners and morals. (less)

"A ravishing romance about three wealthy New Yorkers caught in a tragic love triangle, the ironically-titled story chron... (more)

"A ravishing romance about three wealthy New Yorkers caught in a tragic love triangle, the ironically-titled story chronicles the grandeur and hypocrisy of high society in the 1870's"--Container. (less)