Critics often point to 'Roman Fever' as one of her best. It has a perfect blend of a vivid setting, well - developed characters, and a plot full of twists. The way Wharton reveals the long - held secrets between the two friends is both shocking and thought - provoking.
Many critics consider 'The Age of Innocence' - although it's also a novel, its short story version has been highly praised. It captures the essence of the upper - class New York society in the 19th century, with its rigid social rules and the stifled emotions of the characters. Wharton's writing style in this story is both elegant and incisive.
'Souls Belated' is also often thought of as a top - notch short story by Wharton. It deals with themes of love, independence, and the consequences of defying social norms. The characters' journey of self - discovery against the backdrop of European travel makes it a fascinating read.
However, 'Ethan Frome' also has its share of critical acclaim. Its bleak and unflinching portrayal of rural poverty and the stunted lives of its characters is seen as a testament to Wharton's versatility. It's a departure from her more well - known works about high society, yet it shows her ability to handle different settings and themes with equal skill.
One of the highly regarded Edith Wharton short stories is 'Roman Fever'. It's a story that delves deep into female relationships, jealousy, and secrets among upper - class women. The setting in Rome adds an alluring backdrop to the complex emotions and revelations that unfold between the two main characters.
I think 'Roman Fever' is the most famous. It has a great plot that keeps readers engaged. The way it delves into the complex relationships between the two women and their past is really captivating. It also gives a good insight into the society of that time. There are other good ones like 'The Other Two', but 'Roman Fever' stands out more in terms of popularity.
You could start with 'Roman Fever'. It's a very engaging story that showcases Wharton's talent for exploring complex relationships. It has a great plot twist at the end that will keep you thinking.
Some of her best short stories include 'Roman Fever'. It's a story that delves into the complex relationships between two women and the secrets they hold. The setting in Rome adds an interesting backdrop to the tale of jealousy and long - hidden truths.
Another excellent one is 'The Other Two'. This story delves deep into the complexities of marriage and the pasts that people bring into relationships. Wharton masterfully shows how the main character has to deal with her husband's former relationships in a society where reputation matters a great deal.
Some of her best short stories include 'Roman Fever'. It's a story that delves into the complex relationships between two women and their hidden secrets and jealousies. The setting in Rome adds an air of elegance and mystery.
For me, 'The Age of Innocence' is the best. It has an engaging plot that revolves around a love triangle set against the backdrop of a very formal and traditional society. The characters are well - developed, and you can really get a sense of the constraints they face due to their social standing.
One of the top contenders for Edith Wharton's best novel is 'The Age of Innocence'. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction in 1921. The novel shows how the social norms of the time can suffocate individuals, especially when it comes to matters of the heart. The characters are well - drawn, and the descriptions of the high - society life in New York are both fascinating and a bit horrifying in their rigidity.
The best Edith Wharton ghost story could be 'Kerfol'. It has a unique take on a ghost story as it involves a large number of spectral dogs. The historical context and the way the main character experiences the strange events related to these ghostly dogs make it stand out. The description of the setting and the emotions of the characters are very well - written, creating a haunting and memorable story.