A. Edith Whartons The Age of Innocence B. Written in 1920 C. Set in 1870s New York City D.

Marxist Approach In the novel, The Age of Innocence, Edith Wharton makes a point to discriminate between the Old New York society that had ruled with the privileged on top, dominating the ideals and societal etiquette of the rest, and the rest of New York either not in the higher class or the people who fall in between the Old ideals. At first Wharton makes it seems unusual to see a person out of character when out in society, making it seem vulgar and out of place. Countess Olenska is first to be out casted by the highly regarded society as she had been raised in Europe, and was not accustomed to the ritual of daily life and standards in public. She is seen on various accounts acting out of place; handing her hand to have it kissed, arriving late to highly regarded parties, moving around the room and starting conversations, and befriending other outcasts such as Beaufort. She is compared to her cousin May throughout the book, as a free thinker, unintentionally rebellious, and life loving person. While May, the standard for all young ladies, is blank, ignorant, and lifeless. This is because May is seen not only following the rules, but living them as if her own dreams and aspirations were to reach them. May is first seen not being able to think for herself, dull, boring and submissive to anyone not proceeding life the way she was. But during the novel, it is revealed that she has her own emotions and ideas, which is another hint Wharton gives the reader about the desperation created by this society. Which inhibits people from speaking their minds, however they wish, and have to go about manipulating others on their behalf. This is another reason Olenska differs as she freely speaks her mind, especially to men she should not be so friendly with, as with Newland Archer, Mays

fianc when Olenska confides in him that people dont show their true emotions. Wharton uses the two women to show how different the views are from within and as an outsider in New York.