Washington Square

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In Washington Square, James draws a minutely detailed portrait of life among the Knickerbocker New York aristocracy with... (more)

In Washington Square, James draws a minutely detailed portrait of life among the Knickerbocker New York aristocracy with his characteristic attention to historical accuracy. (James drew on his personal knowledge of Washington Square society for the novel. His grandmother lived at No. 18 Washington Square North and he grew up around the corner on Washington Place. In the novel, the main character, Catherine, stands alone, torn among the cultural forces that would have her marry into elite society though she is in love with someone she can never have, in this case, a "remarkably handsome" young rake, Morris Townsend, who wants only her money. Forbidden by her father to marry Morris, Catherine remains unwed until her father's death. When Morris reappears ten years later and again tries to wed her for her wealth, she rejects him, condemning herself to live alone rather than compromise to the corrupt society of both men and women that has constricted her whole life. (less)

Set in the exacting social landscape of New York City at the turn of the century, Washington Square is the tale of a wea... (more)

Set in the exacting social landscape of New York City at the turn of the century, Washington Square is the tale of a wealthy but shy young woman caught between conflicting family expectations. (less)

Washington Square is the story of Catherine Sloper, a young heiress who is wooed by Morris Townsend, a handsome gentlema... (more)

Washington Square is the story of Catherine Sloper, a young heiress who is wooed by Morris Townsend, a handsome gentleman who is more interested in Catherine's inheritance than he is in her. When the two get engaged against the wishes of her stubborn father, Catherine must make a choice between the only man she will ever love and the wealth that she will inherit.Named for the upscale area of New York in which the novel is set, Washington Square is a classic examination of social class in mid-nineteenth-century New York. (less)