What is considered the best Edith Wharton novel?
Some might argue that 'The House of Mirth' is her best. This novel delves deep into the lives of the wealthy in New York. Lily Bart, the protagonist, is a complex character who struggles in a society that values money and status above all else. Wharton shows the hollowness of this world through Lily's experiences, and her downfall is both heart - breaking and a scathing commentary on the society of the time.
Many consider 'The Age of Innocence' to be one of her best novels. It beautifully portrays the upper - class society in New York during the Gilded Age. The story is filled with complex characters, such as Newland Archer, who is caught between his love for Ellen Olenska and the rigid social norms of his class. Wharton's detailed descriptions of the social mores and the inner turmoil of the characters make this novel a classic.
What is considered the best Edith Wharton short story?
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.
Which novel by Edith Wharton is considered the best among critics?
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.
What is Edith Wharton's best novel?
I think 'Ethan Frome' could be considered one of her best. It's a short but powerful novel that tells a tragic story of a man trapped in a loveless marriage in a harsh rural setting. Wharton's use of the New England winter landscape as a backdrop adds to the sense of desolation and the characters' hopelessness. It shows her ability to create a deeply affecting narrative with relatively few words.
What is Edith Wharton's best novel?
Some might argue that 'The House of Mirth' is her best work. This novel is a scathing critique of the upper - class society. It follows the life of Lily Bart as she navigates the social world filled with gossip, manipulation, and the struggle to maintain her status. Wharton's writing in this book is sharp and incisive, making it a remarkable piece of literature.
What are the best Edith Wharton novels?
One of the best is 'The Age of Innocence'. It beautifully depicts the upper - class society in New York. The story of Newland Archer, his love for Ellen Olenska and the social constraints they face is both poignant and thought - provoking.
What is the best Edith Wharton ghost story?
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.
What are Edith Wharton's best novels?
Some of Edith Wharton's best novels include 'The Age of Innocence'. It beautifully portrays the upper - class New York society in the 19th century, exploring themes of love, social expectations, and the constraints of a rigid class system. Another great one is 'Ethan Frome', which is a rather tragic tale set in a rural New England environment, delving into themes of unfulfilled desires and the harshness of life.
What are the best Edith Wharton ghost stories?
One of the best is 'Afterward'. It's a chilling tale that plays with the idea of a haunting that becomes evident only 'afterward'. The sense of unease and the slow revelation of the supernatural elements make it a classic among her ghost stories.
Which Edith Wharton novel is the best in your opinion?
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.
Which Edith Wharton novel is regarded as her best?
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.