The Age of Innocence centers on an upper class couple's impending marriage, and the introduction of a woman plagued by scandal whose presence threatens their happiness. Though the novel questions the assumptions and morals of 1870s' New York society, it never devolves into an outright condemnation of the institution. In fact, Wharton considered this novel an "apology" for her earlier, more brutal and critical novel, The House of Mirth. Not to be overlooked is Wharton's attention to detailing the charms and customs of the upper caste. The novel is lauded for its accurate portrayal of how the 19th-century East Coast American upper class lived, and this, combined with the social tragedy, earned Wharton a Pulitzer Prize — the first Pulitzer awarded to a woman. Edith Wharton was 58 years old at publication; she lived in that world, and saw it change dramatically by the end of World War I. The title is an ironic comment on the polished outward manners of New York society, when compared to its inward machinations.
Book Published: Oct 1920
Starring: Daniel Day-Lewis, Michelle Pfeiffer, Miriam Margolyes, Richard E. Grant, Winona Ryder
Director Martin Scorsese makes a cameo appearance as the photographer taking May Welland's wedding picture.[2]
Scorsese's parents, Charles and Catherine, make cameo appearances in the train station scene.[2] The film is dedicated to Charles Scorsese, who died before it was completed.
Tamasin Day-Lewis, the sister of Daniel Day-Lewis, makes a cameo appearance as the woman admiring May Welland's engagement ring at the Beauforts' ball.[2]
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Jane Austen's Ladies Society
