Age of Innocence (Wordsworth Classics)

Set against the lavish yet suffocating backdrop of 1870s New York high society, this celebrated novel chronicles the lives of Newland Archer, his conventional fiancée May Welland, and her unconventional cousin, Countess Ellen Olenska. When Ellen returns from Europe trailing whispers of scandal, Archer finds himself drawn to her independent spirit, sparking a passionate attraction that threatens to shatter the illusions of their elite social circle.

Wharton’s writing is remarkable for its meticulous historical accuracy and its biting, satirical observation of the Gilded Age. She crafts a dark comedy of manners where silence speaks volumes and a misplaced glance can ruin a reputation. The novel stands out for its exquisite tension, balancing a tragic love story with a sharp critique of conformity. For this groundbreaking work, Wharton became the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize in 1921.

This Wordsworth Editions paperback is perfect for readers of classic literature and historical drama. It will deeply resonate with anyone fascinated by the intricate social politics of the nineteenth century, as well as those who appreciate brilliant, character-driven prose that explores the eternal struggle between individual freedom and societal expectation.