The Age Of Innocence

The 1870s provide the setting for Edith Wharton's book The Age of Innocence, which takes place in New York City. It chronicles the relationship between Newland Archer, a young lawyer, and the stunning but traditional May Welland. Until Countess Ellen Olenska shows around, Newland is happy with his life and his impending marriage to May. Free-spirited Ellen has left her violent husband and is now looking for safety with her family in New York. One of Wharton's best works, the book covers themes of love, obligation, tradition, and social class.