# The Custom of the Country - Hardcover

by **Edith Wharton** (Author), **Mint Editions** (Contribution by)

Undine Spragg is a beautiful and ambitious, yet vain and socially dense young woman with dreams of marrying a rich man. Hoping for a life of prominence and luxury, Undine convinces her family to relocate to New York. The Spragg family, who have a earned their modest wealth from shady practices, are happy to accommodate Undine's request. When Undine meets Ralph Marvell, an aspiring poet from a family of old New York high society, she is determined to become his wife. After a brief courtship, she gets her wish, however, Undine soon realizes that she is still unsatisfied. Though Ralph is a good husband--kind and doting, he does not have the money to support her extravagant lifestyle. While his family enjoys an elevated social status, it is mainly just reminiscent on a prior generation's wealth; Ralph's family does not possess a significant amount of money. Feeling judged by her in-laws and upset that she cannot purchase luxury items, Undine is unhappy in the marriage, feeling even worse after the birth of their son, Paul. Often neglectful of Paul, Undine begins an affair with an aristocrat named Peter. As their love affair intensifies, Undine becomes set on leaving Ralph, ignoring the possible consequences of being a divorcee in pursuit of money, sex, and social status. With narrative twists and memorable characters, _The Custom of the Country_ by Edith Wharton is a fast-paced story that explores the nuances of American society. Through themes of class, lovely prose and intricate satire, _The Custom of the Country_ pays special attention to the social class divides of 20th century America. While Wharton's novel allows modern readers to gain perspective on a specific era in America, contemporary audiences can also reflect on the ways this class system still effects social customs today. This edition of _The Custom of the Country_ by Edith Wharton now features a new, eye-catching cover design and is printed in a font that is both modern and readable. These accommodations cater to a modern audience, allowing contemporary readers to enjoy the compelling narrative of _The Custom of the Country_ with ease.

### Back Jacket

**Undine, an ambitious young woman, moves to New York with the intent of gaining wealth and a high social status, oblivious to the consequences of her desires.** Set in 20th century New York, _The Custom of the Country_ by Edith Wharton is a romantic drama that examines the consequences of greed while exploring the American high society of the early 1900s.

**Number of Pages:** 348

**Dimensions:** 0.81 x 8 x 5 IN

**Publication Date:** July 27, 2021

## Details

- **Price:** 25.99 USD
- **Vendor:** Books by splitShops
- **Type:** Books
- **Tags:** Books by splitShops, Shopify Collective

## Variants

| Variant | Price | Available |
|---------|-------|-----------|
| Default Title | 25.99 USD | In stock |

## Images

- The Custom of the Country - Hardcover

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