Edith Wharton

Definition

Edith Wharton was an American novelist, short story writer, and designer, recognized for her keen observations of the American upper class during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She spent significant time in Europe, which greatly influenced her writing and perspective on societal norms, particularly concerning themes of class, marriage, and morality. Her works often reflect her experiences as an expatriate and her critiques of American society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Edith Wharton was the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1921 for her novel 'The Age of Innocence.'
2. Wharton's writing often showcased her extensive knowledge of architecture and design, reflecting her background in the upper-class society she critiqued.
3. She became a significant figure in the expatriate literary community in Paris, mingling with other notable writers like Henry James.
4. Wharton's works often highlight the limitations placed on women in society, particularly within marriage and social standing.
5. Despite her critique of American society, Wharton’s writing also demonstrates a deep affection for the complexities of human relationships and the moral dilemmas faced by her characters.

Review Questions

• How does Edith Wharton's experience as an expatriate influence her portrayal of American society in her works?
  • Edith Wharton's time in Europe allowed her to view American society from a distance, leading to a critical perspective on its values and norms. Her experiences among the European elite informed her understanding of social dynamics, which she skillfully incorporated into her narratives. This duality of experience helped Wharton expose the constraints of class and gender within America while also appreciating the intricacies of human relationships.
• Discuss the significance of 'The Age of Innocence' within Wharton's body of work and its commentary on social conventions.
  • 'The Age of Innocence' stands out as one of Edith Wharton's most acclaimed novels, reflecting her deep engagement with themes of love and societal expectations. The story critiques the rigid norms governing New York's upper class while simultaneously portraying the struggles individuals face when caught between personal desire and societal duty. This work exemplifies Wharton's ability to weave intricate character studies within broader societal critiques.
• Evaluate how Wharton's writing reflects the broader expatriate movement among American authors in Europe during her time.
  • Edith Wharton's literature is emblematic of the expatriate movement as it reflects a desire for artistic freedom away from conventional American societal expectations. Her works encapsulate the tensions between cultural identity and personal expression, portraying characters who grapple with their American roots while navigating European sophistication. This blending of influences showcases how expatriates like Wharton sought to redefine their narratives through a transatlantic lens, ultimately enriching both American literature and European artistic discourse.

Related terms

The Age of Innocence: A novel by Edith Wharton published in 1920, exploring themes of love, societal expectations, and the tension between individual desire and social conformity in New York's high society.

The House of Mirth: A novel by Edith Wharton published in 1905 that follows the life of Lily Bart, a beautiful but impoverished young woman navigating the social landscape of New York's elite.

Expatriate Movement: A cultural phenomenon involving American writers living in Europe during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, seeking creative freedom and inspiration away from American societal constraints.