'The Custom of the Country' is also considered one of her best. It follows the life of Undine Spragg, a social climber. Wharton uses this character to critique the shallowness of the upper class and the cut - throat nature of society.
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.
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 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.
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.
It's a bit hard to rank them strictly in order of popularity as it can vary over time. But 'The Age of Innocence' is often considered one of her most popular. It won the Pulitzer Prize, which gives it a high profile. 'Ethan Frome' is also very well - known. Then there's 'The House of Mirth', which was widely read when it was first published and still has a large following today. 'The Custom of the Country' is also quite popular among Wharton enthusiasts.
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.
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.
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.