"The Age of Innocence," by Edith Wharton, is an intriguing exploration of the social conventions and expectations of upper-class New York society in the late 19th century. The novel provides a glimpse into the intricacies of courtship and marriage during a time when society placed great emphasis on maintaining appearances and adhering to strict social norms.
Wharton's portrayal of this world feels stifling and oppressive, even though it is intended as a critique. The author effectively captures the inner turmoil and conflicts faced by her characters, particularly the protagonist Newland Archer, who struggles with his desire for individuality and passion in the face of societal expectations and obligations.
In addition to its insightful portrayal of upper-class society in the late 1800s, the novel is significant for its historical context. Edith Wharton herself was a feminist, and "The Age of Innocence" reflects her critical view of the constraints placed on women during the time period. The author's perspective is evident in the novel's depiction of women as objects of male desire and in the limited opportunities available to them for personal growth and fulfillment.
The final chapter of the book, which takes place several decades later, feels like a breath of fresh air after the stifling world presented in the rest of the novel. The characters have aged and the social norms that once constrained them have evolved, allowing for greater individuality and freedom. This shift provides a satisfying conclusion to the story and a hopeful outlook for the future.
Reading this just after having finished "Blue-Eyed Child of Fortune" was interesting, since in a sense the main characters of this novel are 1 generation down from the generation of Robert Gould Shaw. (And in the case of this book, probably the same social class as him). Despite being a work of fiction, it therefore gave a certain realism to what otherwise would have been something far removed from my day to day reality
Overall, "The Age of Innocence" is an important and fascinating novel, offering readers a window into a world of strict social conventions and expectations. Although it may feel suffocating at times, it serves as an commentary on the limitations placed on women and the challenges of navigating societal expectations. I would recommend reading it, but I couldn't subsist on reading only novels in this atmosphere. The book was also made in to a movi in 1993, starring amongst others Daniel Day-Lewis
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