House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.
From Riches to complete poverty, Lily went full circle. Her values that she learned from her mother were her ultimate demise. Vanity, greed, and her constant pursuit of wealth became her undoing. I believe that she learned that it was nobody else's fault but her own and that she had the power to change her fate. However, she lacked the will to do so. Despite her tremendous loss, Lily ultimately cleared her name of any debt and made right with the world. I feel as if Lily could have came out above all of the people whom she envied if she had chosen to practice a little humility and marry Selden to begin with. However, Lily did not believe that he could bring her happiness because he did not have the funds to do so. In that decision, Lily paid the price. If I was to remove all of the cluttering details, this story would bare particular resemblance to Romeo and Juliet with a few minor, ok, major differences. It is interesting to see how writers recycle plot lines and put a different name and spin on it. Just enough to make people believe that the story is new and unique from any other.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. This book really made me pay attention to detail, especially through the confusing and convoluted parts. While this story does bare some similarities to the Hollywood romance, there were unique things that made this story pop out from the rest. In my eyes, this was a five star read.
"Strive as she would to put some order in her thoughts, the words would not come more clearly; yet she felt that she could not leave him without trying to make him understand that she had saved herself whole from the seeming ruin of her life" (Wharton, 250).
Sunday, July 15, 2012
Chapters 13 & 14. Book 2
House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.
Lily descends into depression. Surrounded by loneliness, without anything to look forward to, Lily falls into a delirious and depressed state. She is found wandering Bryant Park by an old acquaintance from when Lily participated in Gerty's charity program. Lily's encounter with Nettie Struther, who has achieved greatly and is living a comfortable family life, made Lily stronger and happier, however, this happiness did not last long. Lily receives a check from Mrs. Peniston's estate and she begins clearing her debts. After removing herself from debt, Lily was struck with the reality that she had no money to live on. Depressed by her situation, Lily overdoses on her sleep aid and dies in her sleep. The next day, Selden sets out to visit Lily and to ultimately propose to her. Gerty Farish had arrived first to find Lily dead in her bed. Selden remains with Lily and realizes how deep his love truly was for her. Selden feels as if he was partly responsible for her demise because he never had the nerves to tell how he truly felt about her.
Love and sadness are usually two motions that go hand in hand. This book kept that true. Even I, who believed that Lily got what she deserved for living such a lavish and frivolous life, felt sympathy for her and her situation. She did clear her name and make right with her affairs which was a good decision. I feel that if she had not been in a distraught state, Lily could have started with a clean slate.
"His words overwhelmed him in a realization of the cowardice which had driven him from her at the very moment of attainment" (Wharton, 267).
Chapters 10, 11, & 12. Book 2
House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.
A day in the shoes of the working class. Something that Lily Bart could never end up doing. WRONG. Lily leaves Mrs. Hatch to live in a boarding home by herself. Completely secluded from society, Lily becomes a maker of women's hats. From being a rich party girl to being a working class milliner, this marks the complete transformation of Lily's life. No more can she afford expensive clothes or jewelry, or to gamble away her earnings. Instead, she turns to a new addiction, sleep aids. However, her sleep medication has unforeseen consequences because, in spring, Lily is fired from her job due to lack of attendance and attention. Rosedale, who had started visiting her, tries to offer her money, however, she refuses. In an emotional fit, Lily visits Selden who confronts her. Lily apologizes for her insincerity over the years and thanks Selden for his kindness before she throws the letters from Bertha into the fire.
This book, if read in reverse would resemble so many of the "rags to riches" stories that Hollywood enjoys releasing to the public. Cinderella, Slum dog-Millionaire, the list goes on. That is if the story is told in reverse. Played in the forward direction, this book provides an excellent manual on how to not squander your money. If you remove all of the love triangles and drama, you get a story of a girl with a serious spending addiction who learns an important life lesson after it's too late. Call me a heartless person, but Lily got what was coming to her. Good for her that she refused help from Rosedale. She needed to be brought back down to reality.
"Beneath it she discovered an increasing sense of loneliness - a dread of returning to the solitude of her room, while she could be anywhere else, or in any company but her own. Circumstances, of late, had combined to cut her off more and more from her few remaining friends" (Wharton, 239).
A day in the shoes of the working class. Something that Lily Bart could never end up doing. WRONG. Lily leaves Mrs. Hatch to live in a boarding home by herself. Completely secluded from society, Lily becomes a maker of women's hats. From being a rich party girl to being a working class milliner, this marks the complete transformation of Lily's life. No more can she afford expensive clothes or jewelry, or to gamble away her earnings. Instead, she turns to a new addiction, sleep aids. However, her sleep medication has unforeseen consequences because, in spring, Lily is fired from her job due to lack of attendance and attention. Rosedale, who had started visiting her, tries to offer her money, however, she refuses. In an emotional fit, Lily visits Selden who confronts her. Lily apologizes for her insincerity over the years and thanks Selden for his kindness before she throws the letters from Bertha into the fire.
This book, if read in reverse would resemble so many of the "rags to riches" stories that Hollywood enjoys releasing to the public. Cinderella, Slum dog-Millionaire, the list goes on. That is if the story is told in reverse. Played in the forward direction, this book provides an excellent manual on how to not squander your money. If you remove all of the love triangles and drama, you get a story of a girl with a serious spending addiction who learns an important life lesson after it's too late. Call me a heartless person, but Lily got what was coming to her. Good for her that she refused help from Rosedale. She needed to be brought back down to reality.
"Beneath it she discovered an increasing sense of loneliness - a dread of returning to the solitude of her room, while she could be anywhere else, or in any company but her own. Circumstances, of late, had combined to cut her off more and more from her few remaining friends" (Wharton, 239).
Chapters 7, 8, & 9. Book 2
House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.
Lily has her heart set upon marrying Rosedale... mmm, that might be a problem. It turns out that Rosedale no longer wishes to marry Lily because he believes that he could do better because he heard of the things that happened with Lily and the Dorsets. Lily contemplates blackmail but she refuses that option because it would harm Selden and Bertha as a side effect. Lily realizes that she has been defeated completely by Bertha and her resources. Lily realizes that she can never work her way back into a higher status. Despite recognizing her complete downfall, Lily refuses to give up her expensive taste in clothes and living, or her greatest battle, gambling.
Like a true addict, Lily does not back down from her drug, gambling. It is kind of pathetic to see how someone who has realized their own defeat can be so stubborn as to not give up what became her downfall in the beginning. Frankly, I fail to see how Selden and Gerty can stand to help her when she refuses to help herself. Later on, when Lily become the secretary for Mrs. Hatch, whom is a divorcee, she still pursues the rich life even though she lacks the capacity to do so. It was a good moral decision for to not get involved with Mrs. Hatch and Fred Van Osburgh. This seems to be the end for Lily Bart and her bachelorette life.
Oh, how the mighty have fallen... "Miss Bart had not revealed to Gerty the full extent of her anxiety. She was in fact in urgent and immediate need of money: money to meet the vulgar weekly claims which could neither be deferred nor evaded" (Wharton, 217).
Lily has her heart set upon marrying Rosedale... mmm, that might be a problem. It turns out that Rosedale no longer wishes to marry Lily because he believes that he could do better because he heard of the things that happened with Lily and the Dorsets. Lily contemplates blackmail but she refuses that option because it would harm Selden and Bertha as a side effect. Lily realizes that she has been defeated completely by Bertha and her resources. Lily realizes that she can never work her way back into a higher status. Despite recognizing her complete downfall, Lily refuses to give up her expensive taste in clothes and living, or her greatest battle, gambling.
Like a true addict, Lily does not back down from her drug, gambling. It is kind of pathetic to see how someone who has realized their own defeat can be so stubborn as to not give up what became her downfall in the beginning. Frankly, I fail to see how Selden and Gerty can stand to help her when she refuses to help herself. Later on, when Lily become the secretary for Mrs. Hatch, whom is a divorcee, she still pursues the rich life even though she lacks the capacity to do so. It was a good moral decision for to not get involved with Mrs. Hatch and Fred Van Osburgh. This seems to be the end for Lily Bart and her bachelorette life.
Oh, how the mighty have fallen... "Miss Bart had not revealed to Gerty the full extent of her anxiety. She was in fact in urgent and immediate need of money: money to meet the vulgar weekly claims which could neither be deferred nor evaded" (Wharton, 217).
Chapters 4, 5, & 6. Book 2
House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.
Just Deserts...
Upon their return to New York, come to find that Mrs. Peniston has died. In her will, she left the bulk to Jack Stepney, who was wealthy to begin with, and left practically nothing to Lily, who only received $10,000, "and the residue of my [Mrs. Peniston] estate to my dear cousin and name-sake, Grace Julia Stepney" (Wharton, 180). Lily felt abandoned by her aunt and was heart broken. Oh, I forgot to mention that when Lily returned from her vacation, her reputation had been obliterated. She was discredited by almost everyone she knew, which motivates her to put all of her effort into regaining her status, despite the seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Still haunted by financial troubles, Lily wishes to repay Trenor. She asks for a loan from Grace who promptly refuses, which shows that her family has abandoned her. In an attempt to gain social, and in turn, financial security, Lily associates with the Gormer family. This is her power play to gain some popularity with the Trenor and Dorset group. After vacationing with the Gormer family in Alaska, Lily returns to New York with some of her status returned. Carrie Fisher convinces Lily to marry as soon as possible to ensure future financial stability. Lily resolves to marry Mr. Rosedale, however, upon seeing him, she is left with feelings to contemplate before she makes her ultimate decision.
I feel as if Lily is trying to find an easy way back to the top. This makes me wonder if Lily really deserves anything from anybody. I mean, she had the opportunity for happiness with Selden, instead, she squandered her fortune and ruined her chances at true happiness. Who else thinks that she got what she deserved?
Just Deserts...
Upon their return to New York, come to find that Mrs. Peniston has died. In her will, she left the bulk to Jack Stepney, who was wealthy to begin with, and left practically nothing to Lily, who only received $10,000, "and the residue of my [Mrs. Peniston] estate to my dear cousin and name-sake, Grace Julia Stepney" (Wharton, 180). Lily felt abandoned by her aunt and was heart broken. Oh, I forgot to mention that when Lily returned from her vacation, her reputation had been obliterated. She was discredited by almost everyone she knew, which motivates her to put all of her effort into regaining her status, despite the seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Still haunted by financial troubles, Lily wishes to repay Trenor. She asks for a loan from Grace who promptly refuses, which shows that her family has abandoned her. In an attempt to gain social, and in turn, financial security, Lily associates with the Gormer family. This is her power play to gain some popularity with the Trenor and Dorset group. After vacationing with the Gormer family in Alaska, Lily returns to New York with some of her status returned. Carrie Fisher convinces Lily to marry as soon as possible to ensure future financial stability. Lily resolves to marry Mr. Rosedale, however, upon seeing him, she is left with feelings to contemplate before she makes her ultimate decision.
I feel as if Lily is trying to find an easy way back to the top. This makes me wonder if Lily really deserves anything from anybody. I mean, she had the opportunity for happiness with Selden, instead, she squandered her fortune and ruined her chances at true happiness. Who else thinks that she got what she deserved?
Thought Pause. Book 2
House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.
The beginning of Book two can be characterized with a masking of the primary themes of early on in Book one. No longer is this simple cliche love story, rather a complicated who-done-it of lies and dealings. For me, it is hard to follow the web of lies that the Dorsets, Rosedale, Trenor, Ned Silverton, and Lily have weaved. I can understand how these lies came about, but I cannot see how any of them can continue to keep up the charade. I have seen some convoluted lies and tall tales that bare a resemblance to this instance, but from the original themes of the story that dictated that individuality and happiness were one in the same, I could have never guessed how this plot could have come about. I guess that it should have been obvious how this should have happened, it always is in hindsight. I probably could have figured out that Lily would have ended up in a financial nightmare after learning of her habitual gambling and frivolous spending, but the author did a good job of masking that outstanding eventuality with detail and diction that kept me in the now of the story. I guess that Wharton intentionally made it so that the original "message necessarily left large gaps for conjecture" (Wharton, 168), otherwise, it wouldn't be a good story. After all, predictable stories are almost always boring.
I am eager to find how this web of lies and dealings will untangle.
The beginning of Book two can be characterized with a masking of the primary themes of early on in Book one. No longer is this simple cliche love story, rather a complicated who-done-it of lies and dealings. For me, it is hard to follow the web of lies that the Dorsets, Rosedale, Trenor, Ned Silverton, and Lily have weaved. I can understand how these lies came about, but I cannot see how any of them can continue to keep up the charade. I have seen some convoluted lies and tall tales that bare a resemblance to this instance, but from the original themes of the story that dictated that individuality and happiness were one in the same, I could have never guessed how this plot could have come about. I guess that it should have been obvious how this should have happened, it always is in hindsight. I probably could have figured out that Lily would have ended up in a financial nightmare after learning of her habitual gambling and frivolous spending, but the author did a good job of masking that outstanding eventuality with detail and diction that kept me in the now of the story. I guess that Wharton intentionally made it so that the original "message necessarily left large gaps for conjecture" (Wharton, 168), otherwise, it wouldn't be a good story. After all, predictable stories are almost always boring.
I am eager to find how this web of lies and dealings will untangle.
Chapters 1 &2. Book 2
House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.
Book 2 opens with a setting change. Selden is in Monte Carlo with Carrie Fisher and the Dorsets. Much to Selden's surprise, Lily also arrives in Monte Carlo (strange how someone in debt can swing a vacation)," he was vaguely aware that Miss Bart was cruising in the Mediterranean with the Dorsets, but it had not occurred to him that there was any chance of running across her on the Riviera" (Wharton, 150). The only reason that Lily is on the trip is to distract Gorge while Bertha carries on her affair with Ned Silverton. Later this turns into a rumor that Lily and Gorge are having an affair of their own. Selden spots Ned and Bertha and figures out that Lily is being used as a distraction.
None of this can distract Lily from feeling dread about returning to her financial problems back in New York. Frankly, Lily is getting what she deserves for her dealings and trickery. She dug herself into this hole, she should suffer the consequences, one way or another, and find a way out herself. I am also confused that she is vacationing when she knows very well that she is dangerously low on funds to be squandered away. One might think that when facing a debt crisis that Lily would make sensible decisions. This reminds me of how our government, Lily, has a tremendous debt and yet instead of reducing spending, we continually get ourselves deeper into trouble.
None of this can distract Lily from feeling dread about returning to her financial problems back in New York. Frankly, Lily is getting what she deserves for her dealings and trickery. She dug herself into this hole, she should suffer the consequences, one way or another, and find a way out herself. I am also confused that she is vacationing when she knows very well that she is dangerously low on funds to be squandered away. One might think that when facing a debt crisis that Lily would make sensible decisions. This reminds me of how our government, Lily, has a tremendous debt and yet instead of reducing spending, we continually get ourselves deeper into trouble.
Chapter 15. Book 1
House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.
The truth shall be revealed...
After leaving Gerty's house, Lily goes to see her Aunt to tell her the truth about her debt. At first, Lily tries to lie about the origin of her debt by saying that it was caused by living expenses however "her aunt's implacable memory had never been more inconvenient" (Wharton, 139). Mrs. Peniston had remarked that living expenses for a girl of her age could never amount to the sum that Lily had proclaimed. Lily finally admits to gambling away her money. Mrs. Peniston is appalled to find that Lily has been playing cards for money. Mrs. Peniston essentially leaves Lily out to dry and assumes the debt owed to the dress maker.
After Mrs. Peniston abandoned her, Lily saw Selden's affection as the only refuge at this point. However, Selden never came to visit Lily, instead, it was Mr. Rosedale, who arrived to propose to Lily for her hand in marriage. Lily explained to Mr. Rosedale that she would contemplate his marriage proposal and she dismissed him, hoping that Selden would come to see her. Selden never came. As it turns out, Selden had left for Havana in the afternoon.
Lily's anguish over her debt and her Aunt's refusal to help her left Lily in a desperate situation which she saw Selden as the only refuge. However, Selden had seen Lily with Trenor the night earlier and was still upset so he never came to her, instead, Rosedale came to her to propose to her with the enticing offer of clearing all her expenses. However, Lily still had feelings for Selden despite her lack of desire to marry him. It seems that Lily faces another life decision in the face of treacherous situations. All of Lily's financial hiccups are now catching up to her, making her choose between happiness and wealth.
The truth shall be revealed...
After leaving Gerty's house, Lily goes to see her Aunt to tell her the truth about her debt. At first, Lily tries to lie about the origin of her debt by saying that it was caused by living expenses however "her aunt's implacable memory had never been more inconvenient" (Wharton, 139). Mrs. Peniston had remarked that living expenses for a girl of her age could never amount to the sum that Lily had proclaimed. Lily finally admits to gambling away her money. Mrs. Peniston is appalled to find that Lily has been playing cards for money. Mrs. Peniston essentially leaves Lily out to dry and assumes the debt owed to the dress maker.
After Mrs. Peniston abandoned her, Lily saw Selden's affection as the only refuge at this point. However, Selden never came to visit Lily, instead, it was Mr. Rosedale, who arrived to propose to Lily for her hand in marriage. Lily explained to Mr. Rosedale that she would contemplate his marriage proposal and she dismissed him, hoping that Selden would come to see her. Selden never came. As it turns out, Selden had left for Havana in the afternoon.
Lily's anguish over her debt and her Aunt's refusal to help her left Lily in a desperate situation which she saw Selden as the only refuge. However, Selden had seen Lily with Trenor the night earlier and was still upset so he never came to her, instead, Rosedale came to her to propose to her with the enticing offer of clearing all her expenses. However, Lily still had feelings for Selden despite her lack of desire to marry him. It seems that Lily faces another life decision in the face of treacherous situations. All of Lily's financial hiccups are now catching up to her, making her choose between happiness and wealth.
Chapters 13 & 14. Book 1
House of Mirth by Edith Wharton
In this section of the novel, there is a development in character relationships between Gerty Farish and Lily Bart. Specifically after Lily meets with Gus Trenor she becomes upset and asks to stay with Gerty for the night. There Gerty and Lily begin to become friends. Lily even aids Gerty in her philanthropy where Lily learns what true poverty is. This chapter marks a drastic change in Lily, a change that made Lily "a stranger to herself, or rather there were two selves in her, the one she had always known, and a new abhorrent being to which it found itself chained" (Wharton, 120).
In chapter 14, Selden is realizing that despite his reservations about loving someone who obsesses over money, his love for Lily is not subsiding. Selden's love for Lily is recognized by Gerty, who becomes jealous. After having dinner with Gerty, Selden goes to Carrie Fisher's house to find Lily, however, Lily had already left for the Trenor house. When Selden arrives there, he finds that Lily and Trenor were walking outside. Selden now believes that Trenor and Lily are truly having an affair. All the while, Gerty suspects that Selden and Lily are in an affair. Lily appears at Gerty's house and confesses that she is in need of money and that her situation is desperate. Gerty allows Lily to stay the night.
This section of the book is focused upon the development of the relationship between Gerty and Lily. Despite jealousy and differences, this unlikely friendship begins to build. Lily's gambling and dealing are now beginning to catch up with her, which will lead to future conflict.
In this section of the novel, there is a development in character relationships between Gerty Farish and Lily Bart. Specifically after Lily meets with Gus Trenor she becomes upset and asks to stay with Gerty for the night. There Gerty and Lily begin to become friends. Lily even aids Gerty in her philanthropy where Lily learns what true poverty is. This chapter marks a drastic change in Lily, a change that made Lily "a stranger to herself, or rather there were two selves in her, the one she had always known, and a new abhorrent being to which it found itself chained" (Wharton, 120).
In chapter 14, Selden is realizing that despite his reservations about loving someone who obsesses over money, his love for Lily is not subsiding. Selden's love for Lily is recognized by Gerty, who becomes jealous. After having dinner with Gerty, Selden goes to Carrie Fisher's house to find Lily, however, Lily had already left for the Trenor house. When Selden arrives there, he finds that Lily and Trenor were walking outside. Selden now believes that Trenor and Lily are truly having an affair. All the while, Gerty suspects that Selden and Lily are in an affair. Lily appears at Gerty's house and confesses that she is in need of money and that her situation is desperate. Gerty allows Lily to stay the night.
This section of the book is focused upon the development of the relationship between Gerty and Lily. Despite jealousy and differences, this unlikely friendship begins to build. Lily's gambling and dealing are now beginning to catch up with her, which will lead to future conflict.
Chapters 11 & 12. Book 1
House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.
This section of the book can be characterized by an economic dip, where "prices fell in accordance with that peculiar law which proves railway stocks and bales of cotton to be more sensitive to the allotment of executive power" (Wharton 98). This economic fall brings about a change in how people of the upper class live. There are not as many extravagant events or balls to attend, dinners and parties are shorter, and fashion industry slows tremendously. Despite this economic misfortune for many, some people, Welly Bry and Mr.Rosedale, found a way to stay ahead.
Thanksgiving season is usually one to foster family bonding and kindness, however, not in this case. Mrs. Peniston's dinner parties are envied by all the family and when Lily convinced Mrs. Peniston to deny Grace Stepney an invitation, Grace sought revenge. Grace had suspicions about Lily and Mr. Trenor so Grace lied to Mrs. Peniston, telling her that Lily and Mr. Trenor were having an affair. While this is not true, Lily's image within the group has been marred.
After the holiday season, Lily Returns to Belmont. Mrs. Bry uses her newly acquired wealth to put on a fashion show where people dress up and pose to imitate famous art works. At the show, Trenor confronts Lily and complains that she had not been fulfilling her obligation to him in exchange for him handling her finances. Also at the party, Selden and Lily retreat to the garden where they share a kiss, however, Lily again expresses that she does not want to marry him due to financial reasons.
These two chapters of the book mark much of the conflict that has been brewing due to Lily's wheelings and dealings. We shall see how she deals with these problems as the story progresses.
This section of the book can be characterized by an economic dip, where "prices fell in accordance with that peculiar law which proves railway stocks and bales of cotton to be more sensitive to the allotment of executive power" (Wharton 98). This economic fall brings about a change in how people of the upper class live. There are not as many extravagant events or balls to attend, dinners and parties are shorter, and fashion industry slows tremendously. Despite this economic misfortune for many, some people, Welly Bry and Mr.Rosedale, found a way to stay ahead.
Thanksgiving season is usually one to foster family bonding and kindness, however, not in this case. Mrs. Peniston's dinner parties are envied by all the family and when Lily convinced Mrs. Peniston to deny Grace Stepney an invitation, Grace sought revenge. Grace had suspicions about Lily and Mr. Trenor so Grace lied to Mrs. Peniston, telling her that Lily and Mr. Trenor were having an affair. While this is not true, Lily's image within the group has been marred.
After the holiday season, Lily Returns to Belmont. Mrs. Bry uses her newly acquired wealth to put on a fashion show where people dress up and pose to imitate famous art works. At the show, Trenor confronts Lily and complains that she had not been fulfilling her obligation to him in exchange for him handling her finances. Also at the party, Selden and Lily retreat to the garden where they share a kiss, however, Lily again expresses that she does not want to marry him due to financial reasons.
These two chapters of the book mark much of the conflict that has been brewing due to Lily's wheelings and dealings. We shall see how she deals with these problems as the story progresses.
Saturday, July 14, 2012
Chapters 9 & 10. Book 1
House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.
In this section of the book, Lily has an epiphany about her view of wealth. She initially saw wealth as a way to gauge status. Lily realizes the good that wealth could do through charity, whereas " she had never before thought of doing good with the wealth she had so often dreamed of possessing, but now her horizon was enlarged by the vision of a prodigal philanthropy" (Wharton, 91). This new realization goes against everything that Lily's mother taught her. Lily's new attitude differs greatly from her old attitude from when she had a conversation with Selden where she discussed her plans to use her wealth to do very little. Selden challenged her to use her wealth for more than just living in luxury. Selden showed her that wealth was not happiness, just a channel to attain happiness. Money was just one way of making a difference and making her name known to the public. This new view of wealth marks a drastic change in Lily Bart's personality in that she is separating herself from the vanity and shallowness that her mother taught her in exchange for an appreciation of making ones own way and living modestly much like Mr. Selden. Perhaps now that Lily has an altered view of what wealth can do for her and her desire to be wealthy had died down, her relationship with Selden can blossom.
In this section of the book, Lily has an epiphany about her view of wealth. She initially saw wealth as a way to gauge status. Lily realizes the good that wealth could do through charity, whereas " she had never before thought of doing good with the wealth she had so often dreamed of possessing, but now her horizon was enlarged by the vision of a prodigal philanthropy" (Wharton, 91). This new realization goes against everything that Lily's mother taught her. Lily's new attitude differs greatly from her old attitude from when she had a conversation with Selden where she discussed her plans to use her wealth to do very little. Selden challenged her to use her wealth for more than just living in luxury. Selden showed her that wealth was not happiness, just a channel to attain happiness. Money was just one way of making a difference and making her name known to the public. This new view of wealth marks a drastic change in Lily Bart's personality in that she is separating herself from the vanity and shallowness that her mother taught her in exchange for an appreciation of making ones own way and living modestly much like Mr. Selden. Perhaps now that Lily has an altered view of what wealth can do for her and her desire to be wealthy had died down, her relationship with Selden can blossom.
Chapters 7 & 8. Book 1
House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.
This is where Lily Bart's situation gets a little complicated. Lily makes deals with many of the characters introduced to us in previous chapters. An initial financial deal with Mr. Trenor leads to Lily having to gain the favor of Rosedale so that he entrusts his wealth to Mr. Trenor. This would be no problem for Lily if she was only seeking wealth. However, Lily realizes that she would have to lie and alienate Selden, which she has a problem with doing. Lily has realized her true feelings for Selden, but marrying him would lead to financial restrictions. The decision comes down to financial future for abandoning her love, or marrying who she adores for giving up luxury.
While Lily is in personal turmoil, Gryce realizes how he is losing the favor of Lily Bart. He begins seeking out other potential suitors. Lily sees that she is losing Gryce so she puts her energy into saving that relationship, all to no avail when she finds that Gryce is engaged to Evie Van Osburgh. Now, Lily faces new challenges. Her financial future is in peril, her vanity has betrayed her, and she now has to make a life altering decision between Mr. Trenor, Mr. Gryce, and Mr. Selden. Trenor would give her financial stability and success, Gryce would provide a wealthy yet shallow and vain life, and Selden would give Lily Bart a modest and happy life. Lily was saddened to realize that "If anything was needed to put the last touch to her self-abasement it was the sense of the way her old life was opening its ruts again to receive her" (Wharton, 62).
This is where Lily Bart's situation gets a little complicated. Lily makes deals with many of the characters introduced to us in previous chapters. An initial financial deal with Mr. Trenor leads to Lily having to gain the favor of Rosedale so that he entrusts his wealth to Mr. Trenor. This would be no problem for Lily if she was only seeking wealth. However, Lily realizes that she would have to lie and alienate Selden, which she has a problem with doing. Lily has realized her true feelings for Selden, but marrying him would lead to financial restrictions. The decision comes down to financial future for abandoning her love, or marrying who she adores for giving up luxury.
While Lily is in personal turmoil, Gryce realizes how he is losing the favor of Lily Bart. He begins seeking out other potential suitors. Lily sees that she is losing Gryce so she puts her energy into saving that relationship, all to no avail when she finds that Gryce is engaged to Evie Van Osburgh. Now, Lily faces new challenges. Her financial future is in peril, her vanity has betrayed her, and she now has to make a life altering decision between Mr. Trenor, Mr. Gryce, and Mr. Selden. Trenor would give her financial stability and success, Gryce would provide a wealthy yet shallow and vain life, and Selden would give Lily Bart a modest and happy life. Lily was saddened to realize that "If anything was needed to put the last touch to her self-abasement it was the sense of the way her old life was opening its ruts again to receive her" (Wharton, 62).
Chapters 5 & 6. Book 1
House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.
In this section of the book, there is a personality shift that can be seen in Lily Bart. Initially, Lily Bart seems obsessed with vanity and wealth and she intends to maintain status by marrying someone who is wealthy, at least that is what her mother desires. Enter Gryce, the rich someone who Lily is manipulating and gaining the favor of. Lily promises Gryce that she would attend Sunday Mass with him, however, Lily makes excuses to get herself out of that obligation in order to spend time with Mr. Selden, who exemplifies a modest, middle class life. At this point in the story, the relationship between Lily and Selden begins to develop into something more. Also at this point, the story bares a resemblance to a teen drama where Lily, the preppy popular cheerleader, begins to fall for Selden, the less popular yet charming kid, over Mr. Gryce, the popular and rich jock who everybody is expecting Lily to choose to take to prom because that is what the social norm would dictate. This is where Lily Bart discovers that she really wishes to be with Selden. This makes the primary theme clearly visible. That is that Lily Bart is destined to go against the social norm and make her own decision to be with someone she truly loves over someone in the same social class as her. Lily's personality change is epitomized when "carrying her glance a few feet farther, to set up a rapid comparison between Lawrence Selden and Mr. Gryce. It was that comparison which was her undoing. Why else had she suddenly grow interested in Selden" (Wharton, 43)?
In this section of the book, there is a personality shift that can be seen in Lily Bart. Initially, Lily Bart seems obsessed with vanity and wealth and she intends to maintain status by marrying someone who is wealthy, at least that is what her mother desires. Enter Gryce, the rich someone who Lily is manipulating and gaining the favor of. Lily promises Gryce that she would attend Sunday Mass with him, however, Lily makes excuses to get herself out of that obligation in order to spend time with Mr. Selden, who exemplifies a modest, middle class life. At this point in the story, the relationship between Lily and Selden begins to develop into something more. Also at this point, the story bares a resemblance to a teen drama where Lily, the preppy popular cheerleader, begins to fall for Selden, the less popular yet charming kid, over Mr. Gryce, the popular and rich jock who everybody is expecting Lily to choose to take to prom because that is what the social norm would dictate. This is where Lily Bart discovers that she really wishes to be with Selden. This makes the primary theme clearly visible. That is that Lily Bart is destined to go against the social norm and make her own decision to be with someone she truly loves over someone in the same social class as her. Lily's personality change is epitomized when "carrying her glance a few feet farther, to set up a rapid comparison between Lawrence Selden and Mr. Gryce. It was that comparison which was her undoing. Why else had she suddenly grow interested in Selden" (Wharton, 43)?
Chapters 3 & 4. Book 1
House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.
In the beginning of Chapter III, there is a prime example of lavishness and luxury experienced by the upper class of the early twentieth century. However, the setting is not the most important information that can be gleaned from this chapter. More about Lily Bart's personality is revealed, especially the aspect of her being a man eater, as well as being thrifty despite her desire to live lavishly. Lily Bart expresses her desire to live in the lap of luxury, however, she tires of being handed the means to do so. Lily Bart finds herself in a tricky predicament where she lacks the means to live the rich life on her own, which Wharton reveals about Lily Bart when it is stated that "For a long time she had refused to play bridge. She knew she could not afford it, and she was afraid of acquiring so expensive a taste" (Wharton, 20), while at the same time, Lily Bart does not want to be handed luxury or fortune.
Also in this section of the book, much of Lily Bart's past is revealed through flashbacks. Family issues and influence are revealed. Mr. Bart never really had a huge impact on lily because of his absence from the home. Lily's primary influence was her mother, who's vanity and shallowness were passed on to Lily. However, it seems that Lily wishes to break free from the vanity ingrained into her personality from her youth. Lily reveals that she refuses to marry a man solely on the fact that he is wealthy.
Along with the development of the main characters, several minor characters are revealed, most of whom are more than likely destined to disappear from the story.
In the beginning of Chapter III, there is a prime example of lavishness and luxury experienced by the upper class of the early twentieth century. However, the setting is not the most important information that can be gleaned from this chapter. More about Lily Bart's personality is revealed, especially the aspect of her being a man eater, as well as being thrifty despite her desire to live lavishly. Lily Bart expresses her desire to live in the lap of luxury, however, she tires of being handed the means to do so. Lily Bart finds herself in a tricky predicament where she lacks the means to live the rich life on her own, which Wharton reveals about Lily Bart when it is stated that "For a long time she had refused to play bridge. She knew she could not afford it, and she was afraid of acquiring so expensive a taste" (Wharton, 20), while at the same time, Lily Bart does not want to be handed luxury or fortune.
Also in this section of the book, much of Lily Bart's past is revealed through flashbacks. Family issues and influence are revealed. Mr. Bart never really had a huge impact on lily because of his absence from the home. Lily's primary influence was her mother, who's vanity and shallowness were passed on to Lily. However, it seems that Lily wishes to break free from the vanity ingrained into her personality from her youth. Lily reveals that she refuses to marry a man solely on the fact that he is wealthy.
Along with the development of the main characters, several minor characters are revealed, most of whom are more than likely destined to disappear from the story.
Chapters 1 & 2. Book 1
House of Mirth by Edith Wharton.
What better way is there to start a story then with sighting an old friend in an untypical place. Edith Wharton seems to have set up what at first glance can be described as a typical cliche love story, even with the cheesy comments like "his eyes had been refreshed by the sight of Miss Lily Bart" (Wharton, 1).Selden, the first character introduced, who longs for Lily Bart, meets her in a place that is described as unsuited for her attendance. Selden longs for more interaction with Lily Bart, who seems to have no desire to do the same with Selden. The feel of a typical love story disappears as the first chapter progresses. Lily Bart reveals that she wishes to abandon the domestic lifestyle that the time period has condemned her to live for a bachelorette lifestyle. Lily Bart dreams of home ownership, which was unheard of at the time, and to be unrestricted by a husband, also against the grain of society.
Along with Lily Bart and Selden, two other characters are introduced. Mr. Rosedale, a model of obsession for high-living who's primary concern is conforming with society and making himself look good, and Mr. Gryce, who can be described as soft spoken and will probably disappear into the background of the story. I think that the outstanding theme of the story will be to go against the grain of society, only time will reveal whether I am correct or not.
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