The House of Mirth (Annotated): The Original 1905 Edition with New Historical Annotations and Analytical DIscussion Questions

“Everything may be labeled–but everybody is not.” – Edith Wharton. . This fully annotated edition of The House of Mirth includes: The Original 1905 Publication A new historical annotation and author biography by Charlotte Davis. New literary discussion questions for all readers. In the glittering high society of New York at the turn of the twentieth century, beautiful Lily Bart, aged twenty-nine, navigates a precarious social terrain. Born into a declining aristocratic family, her main asset is her charm and beauty – tools she must use wisely to secure a wealthy husband who can ensure her continued place among the elite. Edith Wharton’s “The House of Mirth” is a brilliant and ultimately tragic exploration of the gilded cages in which women of the era were confined. Focusing on Lily’s descent from the luminous center of high society to its despised fringes, the novel is a critical examination of the social mores and moral judgments of her time. Lily, torn between the desire for luxury and her yearning for genuine affection, finds herself caught in a series of unfortunate engagements and diminishing prospects. Her decision seems to pull her further from the safety of a secure marriage and closer to social exile. Wharton masterfully portrays a world where the slightest misstep or rumor can ruin a woman, and societal pressures weigh heavily on individual destiny. Witty, poignant, and exquisitely crafted, “The House of Mirth” not only dissects the manners and hierarchies of New York’s upper class but also offers a heart-wrenching look at the human cost of maintaining such a facade. Lily Bart’s journey is an enduring story of societal constraints and personal choices, making this novel a compelling portrait of a woman’s struggle against her confines and a critical statement on the opulence and superficiality of the American Gilded Age. Viking Classics annotated editions always Include: Spelling and grammar are carefully edited, improved, and considered to preserve the original manuscript and provide a seamless reading experience. Beautiful, hand-designed cover for eBook, paperback, and hardcovers. Makes an excellent gift for children, teens, and adults.