Edith Wharton's 'The Age of Innocence' delves into the societal norms of the Gilded Age, using narrative techniques like unreliable narrators and perspective shifts. The novel examines class distinctions, societal acceptance, and romantic love, while offering feminist critiques through its complex female characters. Wharton's satire of New York's elite and her exploration of personal desires versus societal expectations remain relevant today.
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Edith Wharton's writing style and techniques were innovative for her time and aligned with Modernist principles
Use of Unreliable Narrators
Wharton's use of unreliable narrators adds depth and complexity to her narratives
Shifts in Perspective
Wharton's use of shifts in perspective allows readers to engage with the internal conflicts of her characters
Wharton's background as a member of New York's elite society provided her with an authentic perspective to critique the social structures and mores of her era
Wharton's novel is set during the Gilded Age, a period of economic growth and social change in the United States
Examination of Societal Norms
"The Age of Innocence" is a critical exploration of the societal norms of the Gilded Age
Critique of Social and Economic Inequalities
Wharton's portrayal of the Gilded Age serves as a vehicle for her critique of the rigid class distinctions and underlying social and economic inequalities of the period
Wharton's use of irony and wit exposes the pretentiousness and rigid customs of New York's elite, making the novel a pointed social satire
Wharton contrasts the established aristocracy with the newly wealthy, revealing the social tensions and prejudices that arise from such distinctions
The novel addresses the importance of societal acceptance, as characters who challenge social norms face exclusion
Wharton explores the concept of love within the constraints of social alliances, highlighting the personal sacrifices made in the name of social propriety
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Significance of 'The Age of Innocence'
Pulitzer Prize-winning novel; critiques Gilded Age norms; reflects societal changes and economic growth in the US.
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Edith Wharton's social background influence
Member of New York elite; provided authentic critique of social structures and mores of her time.
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Edith Wharton's contribution to Modernist literature
Innovative storytelling; contributed to development of Modernism with her narrative techniques and themes.
