Who does Newland end up with in The Age of Innocence?
Hopelessly trapped, Newland decides to remain with May and not to follow Ellen, surrendering his love for the sake of his child. Twenty-six years later, after May’s death, Newland and his eldest son are in Paris.
Who is Archer in The Age of Innocence?
Archer, a young gentleman of New York high society, is the protagonist of The Age of Innocence. The novel opens with his engagement to May Welland, whom he eventually marries, but he also falls in love with May’s cousin, Ellen Olenska.
Why does Archer walk away at the end Age of Innocence?
He lived a life of “dull duty” instead of experiencing “the flower of life.” But that was okay, even good. In the end, the clan was more important for him than the woman. And, so, he walked away.
How is Newland Archer described?
As his name suggests, Newland Archer’s values are American. You know: America, the “new land,” as opposed to the “old” ways of Europe. He’s American in his decency, honesty, and self-sufficiency, his hold-the-door attitude toward his virginal fiancée, his money sense and his gentlemanly lawyer position.
What does Newland do for a living?
Newland Archer, a young lawyer from a prominent family, is engaged to May Welland, a proper girl from another leading family. Countess Ellen Olenska, May’s cousin, arrives from Europe having left her dissolute husband with the help of his male secretary.
What did Countess Olenska do?
Ellen, the Countess Olenska, fulfills Newland’s longing for an emotional fantasy life. Her words, her unconventional taste in clothing and interior decorating, and her attitudes symbolize the exotic to traditional Newland. She causes him to question his narrow existence and brings out his protective instincts.
Who is the antagonist in the age of innocence?
May Welland may be Newland’s fiancée and eventual wife, but she is also his #1 opponent. Under that sweet, virginal exterior is a woman who knows how to manipulate people to get what she wants.
Who is Archer in the age of innocence?
Archer, a young gentleman of New York high society, is the protagonist of The Age of Innocence. The novel opens with his engagement to May Welland, whom he eventually marries, but he also falls in love with May’s cousin, Ellen Olenska.
What is the moral of Newland Archer?
Newland Archer has been raised into a world where manners and moral codes dictate how the individual will act, and in some cases, even think. At many points throughout the book, both Archer and Ellen Olenska are expected to sacrifice their desires and opinions in order not to upset the established order of things.
How does Wharton use the character of Newland Archer to criticize society?
Wharton uses the character of Newland Archer as a lens of consciousness through which to see Old New York. As a result, much of the criticism of that society is comprised of his opinions. And in fact, the reader sees two central characters, May Welland and Ellen Olenska, primarily through Archer’s eyes.
What does may tell Newland Archer about her capacity?
Here, May frankly tells Newland Archer not to underestimate her capacities, but he continues to imagine May as an empty container, lacking cleverness, discernment, and an inner life.