Edith Wharton was mainly known for her exploration of the lives of the upper - class in the early 20th century America. Regarding stories specifically about black women, there isn't a great deal that is extremely prominent. It could be that her work doesn't center around this demographic as much as others. Maybe in some of her descriptions of the domestic scene, black women are briefly mentioned as maids or helpers, but not fully developed as main characters in their own right.
Edith Wharton's portrayal of black women was somewhat constrained by the social norms of her day. She typically placed them in roles associated with the lower rungs of the social ladder in her stories. Black women were often depicted as servants, which was a common perception of their place in society at that time. However, this also gives us a window into the complex social fabric that included racial disparities and the restricted roles available to black women in the early 20th - century settings that Wharton wrote about.
The psychological aspect is a key feature. Her horror stories often delve into the minds of the characters, showing their fears, paranoia, and internal struggles. This makes the horror more relatable as it's not just about external monsters but also about the demons within. Also, her use of symbolism, like dark forests or locked rooms, helps to enhance the overall sense of horror.
Well, the use of symbolism in these stories is quite remarkable. Things like old family heirlooms or certain rooms in the houses often symbolize the past and the secrets that haunt the present. It gives the stories more meaning and makes them more than just simple ghost tales.
One notable feature is her sharp social commentary. In her stories, she often reveals the complex social hierarchies and the restrictions placed on individuals, especially women, in the society of her time. For example, in some of her stories, she shows how a woman's reputation could be easily ruined by the smallest of missteps in a highly judgmental social environment.
One characteristic is the use of detailed settings. For example, in 'Afterward', the description of the house and its surroundings adds to the spooky mood.
Another interesting one is 'The Lady's Maid's Bell'. It creates a spooky atmosphere with its elements of the supernatural and the unknown. The story builds tension through the experiences of the maid who starts to notice strange happenings in the house.
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.
Edith Wharton's complete short novels are known for their deep insights into human relationships. She delves into the dynamics between family members, friends, and lovers. In her stories, we can see how jealousy, love, and loyalty play out. For instance, in certain novels, the love affairs are not just about passion but also about the power struggles between the parties involved. Her works also often reflect the cultural and moral values of the time period she was writing in, which gives readers a great understanding of that era.