The Age of Innocence

The Age of Innocence is a novel by Edith Wharton, published in 1920. Set in the elegant upper-class society of 1870s New York City, the story explores themes of love, duty, and social expectations. The protagonist, Newland Archer, is a young lawyer engaged to the beautiful and conventional May Welland. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he meets May's cousin, Countess Ellen Olenska, who has returned to New York after separating from her European husband. As Newland becomes increasingly drawn to Ellen's independent spirit and unconventional views, he begins to question the rigid social norms that dictate his life. Torn between his duty to May and his desire for Ellen, Newland faces a profound internal conflict that challenges his beliefs and values. Wharton's novel is a poignant critique of the constraints imposed by society and the sacrifices required to maintain its appearances. Through richly detailed prose and sharp social commentary, "The Age of Innocence" captures the tension between personal happiness and societal expectations, making it a timeless exploration of the human condition. The novel won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1921, making Wharton the first woman to receive the award. It remains a classic of American literature, celebrated for its insightful portrayal of a bygone era and its enduring relevance to contemporary readers.