4 Wednesday sessions from February 12th - March 5th 2025, 7-9pm

Published in 1905, The House of Mirth marked Edith Wharton's emergence as a major American novelist after years of writing short stories and books on interior design. Originally serialized in Scribner's Magazine throughout 1905, it became her first bestseller. Drawing on her intimate knowledge of New York society, she crafted an insider's view of the world she knew firsthand. The novel's acute observations of social customs, fashion, and etiquette reflect Wharton's own experiences in the exclusive circles she depicts.

We'll examine topics such as the interplay between gambling and social performance, the calculations of friendship and romance, the capital of beauty, and how social customs mask ruthless competition.

Application

Please note that this course has limited capacity to ensure an intimate and engaging discussion environment. Once you submit your application, you will receive a confirmation email regarding your registration status within 2-3 business days.