The Age of Innocence

Rating:
Summary: wonderful portrait of old New York high society
Review: This book paints a fantastic portrait of the tightly controlling high society of the late 1800's New York and it's repression of individuality. Wharton tells the story of Newland Archer, a young man raised in this society, but who possesses a unique ability to question the rules. During his engagement to May Welland, he meets a woman of questionable background who knocks down the beliefs embedded in him through his upbringing. The story of their relationship and its effect on his marriage show the tensions in this society and how its members worked to preserve their culture. Early in the book, the abundant details of dress and decoration of the times become tedious, but Wharton's portrait of individuals, their thoughts, and how the society affected their life choices is masterful. An enjoyable and educational read.

Rating:
Summary: The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton
Review: This book was well written. A little confusing at times because of the manner of the characters speech, but seemingly true to the time period. Edith Wharton is a great author, but through out the book there is a sense of hope that is dashed in the end. For that reason I give it 4 stars.

Rating:
Summary: wonderful novel
Review: This story is full of old new york imagery and captures the readers imagination immediately.I highly recommend the norton critical edition because the essays in the back were very helpful for further reading on Edith Wharton herself, the society in which she lived as well as other miscellaneous articles.