Edith Wharton's 'The House of Mirth' explores the life of Lily Bart, a socialite navigating New York's high society at the turn of the 20th century. Facing the pressures to marry for wealth, Lily's journey reveals the era's social stratification, gender roles, and the consequences of societal expectations. Her tragic story critiques the materialistic values and gender dynamics of her time, offering insight into the Gilded Age's aristocracy.
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Lily Bart, a well-regarded socialite, faces the societal pressure to marry for wealth in order to maintain her social position
Lily's Potential Suitors
Lily's potential suitors, including Lawrence Selden and Simon Rosedale, do not fully align with her aspirations for both financial stability and personal autonomy
Lily's attempts to secure her place in high society are undermined by the deceptive practices of her social milieu, including gossip and financial manipulation
Edith Wharton critiques the upper class's obsession with materialism and social status, which dictate Lily's choices and ultimately lead to her downfall
Wharton exposes the upper class's infidelity and deceit, while maintaining a facade of respectability, highlighting the double standards and ethical compromises prevalent in New York's high society
The novel explores the restrictive gender norms of the early 1900s, where women's reputations were more vulnerable and their opportunities for autonomy and respectable employment were severely limited
Lily's downfall, caused by societal backlash and her own personal decisions, leads to her struggle for survival and descent into poverty
Lily's Refusal to Exploit Incriminating Letters
In a final act of integrity, Lily chooses not to exploit incriminating letters for her benefit, ultimately leading to her untimely death before she can reconcile with Lawrence Selden
Wharton's narrative concludes with a powerful critique of the destructive social conventions of the era, highlighting the tragic consequences of societal norms and expectations
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Author of 'The House of Mirth'
Edith Wharton, an American novelist from the social elite.
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Publication year of 'The House of Mirth'
1905, during the Gilded Age in the United States.
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Primary setting in 'The House of Mirth'
New York's high society at the turn of the 20th century.
