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?
No comments:
Post a Comment