The Age of Innocence

This was a pleasure to read. I'm an English major who never did get around to reading Wharton's books. The characterizations of the more privileged of New York and Philadelphia remain spot on.

Edith Wharton's vivid portrait of wealthy New York in 1870 is as sharp as a paper cut in its insight. She knows her subject matter well and draws a detailed picture of a society where manners and morality, at least outwardly, were as sacred as modern moralities are often profane. The poignant ending completes the story of Newland Archer, the book's main character, in the quiet careful way he lived his life. Perfection.

A great book to read that even now in 2011. It is amazing how class has changed so much since the time this was written. Protection of a family and ones image has changed so much yet still remains the same in some aspects.