The Custom of the Country by Edith Wharton
The book follows the ambitious and cunning Undine Spragg, a beautiful Midwestern girl who marries her way into New York high society. Undine's insatiable desire for wealth, status, and comfort leads her through a series of marriages and divorces, each time climbing higher on the social ladder. However, her ruthless pursuit of success and disregard for social norms ultimately leave her feeling empty and dissatisfied. The novel offers a critique of American society and its values during the early 20th century.
The 604th greatest book of all time
- Published
- 1913
- Nationality
- American
- Type
- Fiction
- Pages
- 300-400
- Words
- 135,420
- Original Language
- English
If you're interested in seeing the ranking details on this book go here
This book is on the following lists:
- 6th on The Ideal Library (Book)
- The New Lifetime Reading Plan (The New Lifetime Reading Plan)
- The Dream of the Great American Novel (Book)
- Harold Bloom's The Western Canon (The Western Canon (Book) by Harold Bloom)
- Best Books (Fiction, Prose) : Experts Choose Their Favourites (The Book "Best Books")
- The Guardian's Essential Library (The Guardian)