TL;DR
Set in the opulent world of 1870s New York City, “The Age of Innocence” explores the complex interplay of love, societal expectations, and personal choice. It follows the story of Newland Archer, a young lawyer engaged to May Welland, a woman who embodies the traditional values of their society. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he encounters May’s unconventional cousin, Countess Ellen Olenska, who has returned to New York after a scandalous separation from her European husband. Newland finds himself drawn to Ellen’s independent spirit and questioning the rigid social norms that have always governed his life.
Table of contents
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Author & Writing Background
Edith Wharton was an American novelist, short story writer, and designer known for her insightful portrayals of upper-class New York society during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born into a wealthy family, she had firsthand experience of the social milieu she depicted in her works. Wharton’s writing is characterized by its sharp wit, psychological depth, and keen observations of human nature. “The Age of Innocence” is considered one of her masterpieces and earned her the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1921, making her the first woman to receive the award.
Key Takeaways
The Conflict Between Passion and Duty
Newland Archer’s internal struggle between his love for Ellen Olenska and his sense of duty towards May Welland and societal expectations forms the central conflict of the novel. He is torn between pursuing his desires and upholding the social code that dictates his life.
Critique of New York Society
Wharton offers a scathing critique of the hypocrisy, superficiality, and rigid social structures of upper-class New York society. She exposes the constraints placed upon individuals, particularly women, and the consequences of defying social norms.
The Power of Social Pressure
The novel highlights the immense power of social pressure and its ability to shape individual choices. Newland is constantly aware of the watchful eyes of society and the potential consequences of deviating from expected behavior.
The Nature of Love and Marriage
Wharton explores the complexities of love and marriage, questioning the compatibility of romantic passion with societal expectations. The novel contrasts the passionate love between Newland and Ellen with the conventional, duty-bound marriage between Newland and May.
The Loss of Innocence
Through Newland’s journey, the novel depicts the loss of innocence as he becomes disillusioned with the ideals and values of his society. He comes to recognize the limitations and constraints imposed by social norms.
The Role of Women
The novel examines the limited roles available to women in upper-class society. While May represents the ideal of the submissive wife, Ellen embodies a more independent and unconventional femininity that challenges societal expectations.
The Theme of Sacrifice
Both Newland and Ellen make sacrifices for the sake of societal expectations and the well-being of others. Newland gives up his love for Ellen, and Ellen chooses to leave New York to avoid causing further scandal and disruption.
The Enduring Power of the Past
The novel demonstrates how the past continues to influence the present, shaping individual choices and destinies. Newland’s memories of Ellen and his unfulfilled desires haunt him throughout his life.
FAQ about The Age of Innocence
The Age of Innocence Quotes
- ”He had the feeling that he must make some gesture of atonement, some self-sacrifice that would convey to her, without speech, the full measure of his tenderness and regret."
- "She had become the complete vision of that immemorial loveliness of which she was the disinherited heir, and the embodiment of the exotic perilousness which had made him, the first moment, seek her out and follow her."
- "It was you who made me understand that under the dullness there are things so fine and sensitive that they’re hidden away to protect themselves.”