The House of Mirth

Set in New York City's high society at the turn of the 19th century, the novel follows Lily Bart, a beautiful yet financially struggling woman. As she navigates the complexities of social expectations and personal desires, Lily grapples with the constraints of her environment and the pursuit of wealth. Wharton explores themes of class, gender, and the moral dilemmas faced by women in a society that values status over character. Lily's journey reveals the harsh realities of a world where social standing often dictates one's fate.