Newland Archer, a young man from a distinguished upper-class family, is madly in love with May Welland, a beautiful young woman who represents Newland's ideal female. They are betrothed and he believes that she will be the perfect wife, supporting his career and running a household of which he will be proud. When May's cousin Countess Ellen Olenska returns from Poland in disgrace, having left her abusive husband, Newland becomes obsessed with her, but since she is still married and unsuitable as a wife, he follows through with his marriage to May. All of Ellen's relatives encourage her to return to her terrible marriage, to not seek a divorce because appearances are so much more important than personal happiness or even safety. Throughout the novel Newland pines away for Ellen, alternately denying his feelings and deciding to leave May for his true love. May is not stupid, though, and continually manipulates circumstances to ensure that Newland remains where he belongs, with his family. When May dies after years of marriage, Newland considers finally reuniting with Ellen in Paris, but discovers that the woman he has been longing for throughout the years may not really be the one for him.
I found this novel to be an interesting commentary on life and social values in the gilded age. Thank God things have changed since then, especially for women!
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