Who / What
"The Age of Innocence" is a novel written by American author Edith Wharton. It is a work of fiction that portrays New York high society in the 1870s.
Background & History
The novel was published on 25 October 1920 by D. Appleton & Company. It was initially serialized in four parts in the magazine Pictorial Review during 1920 before its book release. This was Wharton's eighth novel.
Why Notable
The novel won the 1921 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, making Wharton the first woman to receive this award. It is highly regarded for its detailed portrayal of social norms and constraints in the Gilded Age. The work remains a classic of American literature and is frequently studied for its themes of tradition versus change.
In the News
The novel maintains relevance through continued academic study and periodic adaptations, such as the 1993 film directed by Martin Scorsese. Its themes of societal pressure and personal desire continue to resonate with modern audiences, ensuring its place in contemporary cultural discussions.
