This series delves into the intricate workings of the human heart and the societal constraints of a bygone era. It follows the journey of an independent young woman navigating a world defined by rigid expectations and patriarchal structures. Through her experiences, the narrative explores themes of self-discovery, the pursuit of authentic connection, and the struggle for personal autonomy.
The book is a reproduction of an important cultural artifact, preserved to maintain fidelity to the original text. It includes original copyright references and library stamps, reflecting its historical significance and scholarly value. This work contributes to the broader knowledge base of civilization, highlighting its relevance in understanding cultural heritage.
[Penguin Readers Level 3]When Isabel Archer, a young American woman with looks, wit, and imagination, arrives in Europe, she sees the world as `a place of brightness, of free expression, of irresistible action'. She turns aside from suitors who offer her their wealth and devotion to follow her own path. But that way leads to disillusionment and a future as constricted as `a dark narrow alley with a dead wall at the end'. In a conclusion that is one of the most moving in modern fiction, Isabel makes her final choice. The Portrait of a Lady is the masterpiece of James's middle period, and Isabel is perhaps his most engaging central character. This edition provides a challenging new introduction and detailed notes; the text is that of the New York Edition and includes Henry James's own Preface.