The Portrait of a Lady

Discover the timeless classic, The Portrait of a Lady, recognized as one of Henry James's masterpieces. This captivating narrative transports you into the vibrant life of Isabel Archer, an independent American woman navigating the complexities of wealth, love, and self-determination in Europe. Featuring insightful commentary by Philip Horne, this edition from Penguin Classics offers an authentic backdrop, revealing a poignant story of ambition and betrayal. With 718 pages of rich, atmospheric prose, readers will find themselves immersed in a tale that eloquently examines the relationship between monetary affluence and personal happiness. Isabel Archer’s defiance against societal expectations and her journey to confront her own destiny illuminate the struggles faced by women in the late 19th century. Ideal for fans of literary fiction, this beautifully bound paperback version is perfect for book collectors and those seeking to explore classic literature. The Portrait of a Lady is not merely a novel; it's an exploration of life's deeper meanings, making it a must-have addition to your reading list. Enjoy FREE shipping on your purchase, and seamlessly dive into the world created by one of the leading figures of the literary establishment. Order your copy now and enrich your bookshelf with this essential work of literature.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9780141441269
Format: B-format paperback
Year: 2011
Publisher: Penguin UK
Pages: 718


Description:
Regarded by many as Henry James's finest work, and a lucid tragedy exploring the distance between money and happiness, The Portrait of a Lady contains an introduction by Philip Horne in Penguin Classics.When Isabel Archer, a beautiful, spirited American, is brought to Europe by her wealthy aunt Touchett, it is expected that she will soon marry. But Isabel, resolved to enjoy the freedom that her fortune has opened up and to determine her own fate, does not hesitate to turn down two eligible suitors. Then she finds herself irresistibly drawn to Gilbert Osmond. Charming and cultivated, Osmond sees Isabel as a rich prize waiting to be taken. Beneath his veneer of civilized behaviour, Isabel discovers cruelty and a stifling darkness. In this portrait of a 'young woman affronting her destiny', Henry James created one of his most magnificent heroines, and a story of intense poignancy.This edition of The Portrait of a Lady, based on the earliest published copy of the novel, is the version read first and loved by most readers in James's lifetime. It also contains a chronology, further reading, notes and an introduction by Philip Horne.Henry James (1843-1916) son of a prominent theologian, and brother to the philosopher William James, was one of the most celebrated novelists of the fin-de-si cle. In addition to many short stories, plays, books of criticism, biography and autobiography, and much travel writing, he wrote some twenty novels. His novella Daisy Miller (1878) established him as a literary figure on both sides of the Atlantic, and his other novels in Penguin Classics include Washington Square (1880), The Portrait of a Lady (1881), The Awkward Age (1899), The Wings of the Dove (19
This product has FREE shipping however combined shipping for other products is not available with this item. Please allow up to 10 days for shipping.