The Custom of the Country

Undine Spragg, a Midwestern girl with insatiable social ambitions, navigates the upper echelons of early twentieth-century society, transitioning from trade-wealthy fringes to New York high society. Wharton crafts a detailed portrayal of the era's upper class through Undine's narcissism and relentless pursuit of status. The novel explores themes of greed, marriage, and the evolving social roles of women, offering insights that remain relevant today. Wharton's intricate plot highlights the customs of a modern age while providing a compelling commentary on divorce and societal expectations.