"The House of Mirth"

Paper Summary:

This paper introduces, discusses and analyzes the book "The House of Mirth," by Edith Wharton. Specifically, it looks at the theme of success in the novel, and how a success-oriented society can destroy the weak and untrained. It shows how the character of Lily is greatly focused on her physical appearance and the correct clothes make her think that she will be accepted into society.

From the Paper:

"Lily Bart begins her tumble into poverty from the very beginning of the book, because she does not conform to society, and she cannot become a success in the world of business, because she does not even understand what success is. From the very start of the novel, success is a strong and prevalent theme, and it is clear Lily is not going to be a success, when she does not even understand the concept. "Later he [Selden] inquires: 'Is there any final test of genius but success?' Lily replies: 'Success?' She hesitated. 'Why, to get as much as one can out of life I suppose. It's a relative quality after all. Isn't that your idea of it?'" (Underwood 365)."

More papers on "The House of Mirth":

• Book Review # 122433 : "Lily Bart in "The House of Mirth"
• Analytical Essay # 23750 : "The House of Mirth"
• Analytical Essay # 61882 : "The House of Mirth" and "Little Women"
• Analytical Essay # 16223 : "Wharton's "The House of Mirth"

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