The Custom of the Country

Wharton's novel "Undine" is a scathing yet personal examination of the modern upper class, following the journey of Undine Spragg from New York to Europe. Through her heroine, Wharton conveys a vision of a social class that is both informed and disenchanted.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 06 July 2023
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Wharton's novel, Undine Spragg, is a captivating and delectable portrayal of the ambitious social ascent of Undine Spragg, with a foreword by Sofia Coppola. Widely regarded as her masterpiece, Edith Wharton's second full-length work delves into a scathing yet personal exploration of the exploits and follies of the modern upper class. As she unfolds the journey of Undine Spragg from New York to Europe, Wharton offers a vivid and intricate portrayal of the interior of America and its nouveau riche outskirts. Through the captivating character of Undine, who is both vain, spoiled, and selfish yet undeniably fascinating, Wharton conveys a profound vision of a social class that is simultaneously informed and disenchanted.

Undine Spragg, the protagonist of Wharton's novel, embarks on a remarkable journey from New York to Europe. Throughout her travels, Wharton provides a detailed insight into the inner workings of America and its affluent periphery. Through the intricate plot of Undine's marriages and affairs, Wharton conveys a nuanced portrayal of a social class that is both educated and disillusioned. Undine's character, characterized by her vanity, indulgence, and selfishness, serves as a captivating lens through which Wharton explores the complexities of human relationships and the societal pressures that shape individuals.

Wharton's novel, Undine Spragg, is a masterful exploration of the social ascent of Undine Spragg, with a foreword by Sofia Coppola. Considered by many to be her masterpiece, this second full-length work delves into a scathing yet personal examination of the exploits and follies of the modern upper class. As Undine's journey unfolds from New York to Europe, Wharton offers a vivid and intricate portrayal of the interior of America and its nouveau riche fringes. Through the captivating character of Undine, who is both vain, spoiled, and selfish yet undeniably fascinating, Wharton conveys a profound vision of a social class that is simultaneously informed and disenchanted.

Undine Spragg, the protagonist of Wharton's novel, embarks on a remarkable journey from New York to Europe. Throughout her travels, Wharton provides a detailed insight into the inner workings of America and its affluent periphery. Through the intricate plot of Undine's marriages and affairs, Wharton conveys a nuanced portrayal of a social class that is both educated and disillusioned. Undine's character, characterized by her vanity, indulgence, and selfishness, serves as a captivating lens through which Wharton explores the complexities of human relationships and the societal pressures that shape individuals.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 144 x 214 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780143137214