8 books found
Opening on the French Riviera among a motley community of American expatriates, The Mother's Recompense tells the story of Kate Clephane and her reluctant return to New York society after being exiled years before for abandoning her husband and infant daughter. Oddly enough, Kate has been summoned back by that same daughter, Anne, now fully grown and intent on marrying Chris Fenno, a war hero, dilettante, and social opportunist. Chris's questionable intentions toward her daughter are, however, the least of Kate's worries since she was once, and still is, deeply in love with him. Kate's moral quandary and the ensuing drama evoke comparison with Oedipus and Hamlet and lead to an ending that startled the mores of the day.
Contemporary American Literature is a meticulously curated anthology, exploring the rich tapestry of early 20th-century American writing. Covering an expansive range of literary styles, from realism to modernism, this collection captures the diverse essence of a nation in flux. Readers will find a spectrum of voices and genres that reflect the dynamic cultural landscape of the time, offering works that challenge societal norms, explore human consciousness, and reflect on the American identity. Each piece, carefully selected, creates a mosaic of thought-provoking narratives that echo the transformative era they were born from. Edited by renowned literary scholars John Matthews Manly and Edith Rickert, the anthology brings together influential authors whose collective works have significantly shaped American literature. The editors' extensive background in medieval studies and their expertise in decoding complex literary themes ensure a nuanced compilation that resonates with both the historical and intellectual currents of the time. The selected works align with cultural movements such as the Harlem Renaissance and the Lost Generation, providing a profound exploration of themes like disillusionment, race, and the search for meaning. This anthology is an invitation to rediscover the eclectic world of American letters through a critical lens. By offering access to an array of perspectives, Contemporary American Literature serves as an invaluable resource for those seeking to deepen their understanding of early 20th-century American thought and creativity. The collection not only broadens literary horizons but also facilitates a rich dialogue amongst its diverse voices, making it an essential addition to any literary enthusiast's library.
by Edith Wharton
2024 · Prabhat Prakashan
Book 1: Immerse yourself in the social intricacies of the Gilded Age with “The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.” Wharton's novel follows the tragic fate of Lily Bart as she navigates the high-society landscape of New York. Through Lily's story, Wharton provides a poignant commentary on the pressures and limitations imposed on women in the early 20th century. Book 2: Explore the constraints of societal expectations in “The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton.” Wharton's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel paints a vivid portrait of New York's upper crust during the Gilded Age, examining the conflicts between passion and propriety. This classic work delves into the complexities of love and duty against a backdrop of rigid societal norms. Book 3: Enter the world of tragic romance with “Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton.” Wharton's novella explores the doomed love affair between Ethan Frome and his wife's cousin, Mattie Silver, against the bleak backdrop of a harsh New England winter. This poignant tale captures the emotional complexities and societal constraints that define Wharton's exploration of human relationships.
One of Edith Wharton’s most accomplished social satires, this novel tells the story of the beautiful but impoverished New York socialite Lily Bart, whose refusal to compromise in her search for a husband leads to her exclusion from polite society. In charting the course of Lily’s life and downfall, Wharton also provides a wider picture of a society in transition, a milieu in which old certainties, manners, and morals no longer hold true, and where the individual has become an expendable commodity. This classic American novel is now available in a Broadview edition that includes a critical introduction and a rich selection of contextual documents. Appendices include Wharton’s correspondence about The House of Mirth, contemporary articles on social mores, etiquette, and dress, and related writings by Henry James, Thorstein Veblen, and Charlotte Perkins Gilman.