Major Issues
Author Links
Essay Questions

Major Issues

Henry James is the writer to whom Edith Wharton is most often compared. Critics point out that both writers explore the social and political relations between Americans and Europeans, and both satirize the American upper classes. Wharton’s writing, however, is marked by much greater clarity and lighter humor than is James’. Scholars have noted that Wharton’s major themes include a critique of the restrictive social code of American upper society and its debilitating and sometimes tragic effects on individuals. Her work is sometimes described as naturalistic, as she shows how her characters are shaped by their environments, especially by their economic circumstances. There have been a number of feminist studies of Wharton’s works, including her negative portrayal of sexual repression.

Author Links

The Edith Wharton Society
This gateway site provides a biography of Wharton along with many links to other on-line biographies, bibliographies, critical research, and more.

Edith Wharton: An overview with biocritical sources
Here you’ll find a timeline, list of works, picture gallery, and other Wharton links.

Edith Wharton: Domestic Goddess
This site includes a bio-critical essay, bibliography, filmography, and essays on Wharton’s works.

Roman Fever
Summary and commentary on the short story in your anthology.

Edith Wharton’s World
Portrait exhibit from the National Portrait Gallery, with Wharton biography and detailed description of images.