Title
The Custom of the Country (Oxford World's Classics),Used
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Edith Wharton's satiric anatomy of American society in the first decade of the twentieth century appeared in 1913; it both appalled and fascinated its first reviewers, and established her as a major novelist. The Saturday Review wrote that she had 'assembled as many detestable people as it is possible to pack between the covers of a sixhundred page novel,' but concluded that the book was 'brilliantly written,' and 'should be read as a parable.'It follows the career of Undine Spragg, recently arrived in New York from the Midwest and determined to conquer high society. Glamorous, selfish, mercenary and manipulative, her principal assets are her striking beauty, her tenacity, and her father's money. With her sights set on an advantageous marriage, Undine pursues her schemes in a world of shifting values, where triumph is swiftly followed by disillusion.Wharton was recreating an environment she knew intimately, and Undine's education for social success is chronicled in meticulous detail. The novel superbly captures the world of postCivil War America, as ruthless in its social ambitions as in its business and politics.About the Series: For over 100 years Oxford World's Classics has made available the broadest spectrum of literature from around the globe. Each affordable volume reflects Oxford's commitment to scholarship, providing the most accurate text plus a wealth of other valuable features, including expert introductions by leading authorities, voluminous notes to clarify the text, uptodate bibliographies for further study, and much more.
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- Q: What is 'The Custom of the Country' about? A: 'The Custom of the Country' is a novel by Edith Wharton that explores the life of Undine Spragg, a young woman from the Midwest who seeks to rise in New York's high society during the early 1900s. It provides a satirical look at American society's values and ambitions.
- Q: Who is the author of 'The Custom of the Country'? A: The author of 'The Custom of the Country' is Edith Wharton, an acclaimed American novelist known for her insightful portrayals of social dynamics and human behavior.
- Q: What is the page count of this book? A: 'The Custom of the Country' has a total of 416 pages, providing readers with an in-depth narrative of Undine Spragg's journey through social challenges.
- Q: What is the binding type of this edition? A: This edition of 'The Custom of the Country' is a paperback, making it lightweight and portable for easy reading.
- Q: When was 'The Custom of the Country' published? A: 'The Custom of the Country' was published on January 15, 2009, as part of the Oxford World's Classics series.
- Q: Is this book suitable for new readers of Edith Wharton? A: Yes, 'The Custom of the Country' is suitable for new readers of Edith Wharton, as it showcases her signature style and themes, making it an accessible entry point into her work.
- Q: What themes are explored in 'The Custom of the Country'? A: Major themes in 'The Custom of the Country' include social ambition, the pursuit of wealth, the complexities of marriage, and the critique of societal values in early 20th century America.
- Q: What makes this edition special? A: This edition is part of the Oxford World's Classics series, which includes expert introductions, extensive notes, and bibliographies, enhancing the reader's understanding of the text.
- Q: Can you tell me about Undine Spragg's character? A: Undine Spragg is characterized as glamorous, selfish, and ambitious. Her journey reflects her struggle to navigate and manipulate the social elite to achieve her goals.
- Q: Is this book considered a classic of American literature? A: Yes, 'The Custom of the Country' is regarded as a classic of American literature, praised for its sharp social commentary and literary merit.