House of Mirth, The
Wharton, EdithIntroduction written in 1985. Rediscovered novel from the New York world of the moneyed classes. Story of the tragedy of failed social climber, Lily Bart, who desperately seeks to hide her poverty. US. [Small font]
Comments from Groups
The book generated a very interesting discussion on the class system! Hamilton 022 We loved this book! Many of us had also read 'The Age of Innocence', and seen the excellent movie of that book, which enhanced our appraisal and appreciation of 'The House of Mirth'.... Upper Hutt 002 We loved the detailed prose - very clear and insightful. A book which challenged some, but generated great discussion. Hamilton 028 We found 'The House of Mirth' a very telling and descriptive picture of a particular era, and felt sorry for Lily, so trapped in a class system. Lower Hutt 004 The majority of our group felt the book was interesting enough, but unnecessarily wordy and lengthy. Christchurch 010 We all admired the writing style, and appreciated the social history. Some of the delightful ironic vignettes made up for the over abundance of clothes talk, appropriate social manners etc. Auckland 055 Excellent discussion. The book provoked lots of talk about the attitudes of late 19th century 'society', and Edith Wharton's intention to expose its negative aspects. Doyle 001
Pages
338
338
Year
1905
1905
Reviews
05-02-2024
Our group were thankful not to be part of the society described in this book. We found we were gripped by the plot once we had read half, but to get to that point was difficult reading.
05-02-2024
All except two enjoyed this as a social satire. The other two found it irritating and not as well written as 'Age of Innocence'. The pace and openness of life nowadays makes it hard to identify with such a lifestyle and the lack of communication.
05-02-2024
Discussion excellent. Most readers enjoyed the story and style of writing.
05-02-2024
The group had mixed feelings about this book - all felt it was a clever and well-written book, although some found it hard to get into.
05-02-2024
The group enjoyed this, above all, for the brilliance of Wharton's language. Criticisms were mainly of the repetitive nature of events - no real plot just the spiralling downwards; and the dislike of virtually all the characters. Social criticism, but without the irony and humour of a Jane Austen. The notes were excellent.
04-07-2019
Discussion was quite lively. All enjoyed what they read - some were a bit depressed by the ending. The consensus was that the notes were useful and informative.
04-07-2019
Discussion excellent. Most readers enjoyed the story and style of writing.
04-07-2019
Most people enjoyed the book although found it quite heavy going at times. Good discussion.