Jan 1, 2010
The central character, Newland Archer, is a well-to-do young lawyer who is connected with most of the city’s leading families. Sensitive and intelligent, he prides himself on his ability to distance himself from the narrowness of his social circle. As the novel progresses, however, he realizes that this society he views so critically is a powerful force conspiring to confine him within its limits.
His conflict is embodied in the two women he loves. May Welland, who becomes his wife, is handsome, placid, and sheltered--the ideal bride of her class. Her cousin, Ellen Olenska,...
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