The Custom of the Country
Nov 2022 · DigiCat
Ebook
386
Pages
family_home
Eligible
info
reportRatings and reviews aren’t verified Learn More
About this ebook
Edith Wharton's "The Custom of the Country" delves into the complexities of societal expectations and individual desires in early 20th-century America. Through the lens of its protagonist, Undine Spragg, a quintessential representation of social ambition, Wharton critiques the materialistic and often superficial nature of the American upper class. The novel's modernist literary style, characterized by its sharp dialogue and rich, nuanced descriptions, effectively captures the interplay between personal aspiration and societal constraints, illustrating the stark realities of ambition and disillusionment in a rapidly changing world. Edith Wharton was an influential figure in American literature, often exploring themes of social class, gender, and morality. Born into a wealthy New York family, Wharton had firsthand experience with the societal norms she so brilliantly dissected in her work. Her European travels and the contrasts between American and European societies deeply influenced her literary voice, and "The Custom of the Country" represents her sophisticated commentary on the American social landscape at the turn of the century. For readers interested in the intricate dynamics of class and gender, "The Custom of the Country" is an essential read. Wharton's keen insights and masterful storytelling invite readers to reflect on the timeless struggles between societal expectations and personal identity, making this novel a profound exploration of the human condition.
About the author
Edith Wharton, née Edith Newbold Jones, was an American novelist, short story writer, and designer born on January 24, 1862, into a wealthy and distinguished New York family. She broke away from the tightly regulated society of her upbringing to forge a path as a leading literary figure. Wharton's narrative style is characterized by her sharp wit, incisive social critique, and keen insight into her characters' psychological depth. Her work often centers around the theme of society and the constraints it places on individuals, particularly women. Among her numerous and celebrated works, 'The Custom of the Country' stands out as a notable example, painting a satirical and unflattering portrait of the American upper class through the experiences of its protagonist, Undine Spragg. This novel, along with 'The Age of Innocence' for which Wharton became the first woman to win a Pulitzer Prize in Literature, and 'Ethan Frome', secured her place as an important figure in American literary history. Her literary contributions extended to over forty books, including novels, short stories, poetry, and non-fiction. Wharton's legacy continues to influence writers and is a subject of scholarly study that acknowledges her as a preeminent voice in the American realist tradition. She died on August 11, 1937, but her work endures, testifying to the intellect and skill of this significant author.
Rate this ebook
Tell us what you think.
Reading information
Smartphones and tablets
Install the Google Play Books app for Android and iPad/iPhone. It syncs automatically with your account and allows you to read online or offline wherever you are.
Laptops and computers
You can listen to audiobooks purchased on Google Play using your computer's web browser.
eReaders and other devices
To read on e-ink devices like Kobo eReaders, you'll need to download a file and transfer it to your device. Follow the detailed Help Center instructions to transfer the files to supported eReaders.
