The Age of Innocence

Set during the Gilded Age in New York City, The Age of Innocence follows Newland Archer, a poised and pedigreed gentleman lawyer who is eagerly anticipating his impending union with May Welland, a paragon of Old New York grace. The arrival of Countess Ellen Olenska, May's enigmatic and alluring cousin, shatters the tranquility of Archer's carefully structured world. Recently returned from Europe, Ellen exudes an air of cosmopolitan mystery as whispers of scandal cling to her, and rumors of the turbulent marriage she left behind circulate in posh ballrooms. As Archer finds himself drawn into Ellen's world, he grapples with the stark contrast between the two women. May, a portrait of tradition and conformity, is the epitome of what society would call an excellent match. In contrast, Ellen's allure lies in her defiance of convention, her rebellion against the constraints of propriety. Archer is faced with a choice that will define his destiny and the person he will become. Against the backdrop of high society's glittering façade, Edith Wharton's masterful tale unravels, exploring the timeless themes of honor, love, and the intricate dance between societal expectation and personal fulfillment. This Warbler Classics edition includes an extensive biographical timeline of Edith Wharton's life and work.