The Age of Innocence

Set in the opulent society of 1870s New York City, the narrative explores themes of love, social conventions, and personal sacrifice. The protagonist navigates the constraints of upper-class expectations, highlighting the tension between individual desires and societal norms. Winning the Pulitzer Prize in 1921, this novel not only solidified Edith Wharton's literary legacy but also marked a significant milestone as she became the first woman to receive the award. The story reflects the complexities of Gilded Age society through its rich character portrayals.