The Age of Innocence
Edith Wharton
Year
1920
822
686
783
624
1046
891
725
868
1369
1081
930
1323
736
770
1181
1068
1094
1310
1197
1323
1459
992
1103
625
978
1185
743
701
783
1015
1265
996
1672
1868
Description
Step into the opulent world of 1870s New York City with Edith Wharton's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, 'The Age of Innocence.' This masterfully written story delves into the lives of the city's upper-class elite, where societal norms and appearances govern every aspect of life. At the center of this constrained social circle is Newland Archer, a young and affluent lawyer, who is engaged to the seemingly perfect May Welland. However, the arrival of May's cousin, the Countess Ellen Olenska, who is seeking to divorce her abusive husband, introduces Newland to new ideas and emotions that challenge his perception of the world. As Newland grapples with his growing feelings for Ellen and the rigid expectations of his social sphere, he confronts the dilemma of choosing between passion and duty, individual desire and societal norms. Wharton's incisive and elegant prose captures the nuances of this dilemma, painting a vivid picture of a society in transition. 'The Age of Innocence' is not just a love story; it is a critique of a world where the unspoken rules of conduct can dictate the course of one's life. The novel explores themes of freedom, the illusion of choice, and the sacrifices made in the name of propriety. As you listen to 'The Age of Innocence,' prepare to be transported to a world of grand balls, intricate social maneuvering, and the quiet yet powerful rebellions against the constraints of an age on the brink of change.