Blog #12

The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton
Analysis over Book 2 chapters 4-6


At this point in the novel, due to the accelerated occurrence of events, I feel that rising action is quickly approaching. The sudden death of Mrs.Peninston leaves Lily with a surprisingly low ten thousand dollars and Grace Stepney with the whole estate. Lily has completely tumbled down the high class ladder. Her name is swarming with rumors, she has no money, and all "friends" have abandoned her except for the loyal Gerty Farish. With the help of Carry Fisher, Lily becomes the social adviser for the not so popular Gomers. With them, Lily travels to Alaska and to their country estate in Long Island where she runs into the eager Mr.Dorset. I was surprised by the maturity at which Lily continues to hold while dealing with the Dorsets. Lily could have easily told Mr.Dorset that Bertha has had an affair, sweep Mr.Dorset off his feet, marry him and live happily ever after. Oddly though, she refuses to tell him anything. After all the pain and hardships Bertha has put Lily through, I'm more than surprised Lily doesn't jump at the first opportunity to seek revenge. I'm assuming she is trying her best to stay clear of any course of action that could lead to more negative rumors. Desperate as ever, Lily has come to the conclusion that she must marry Mr.Rosedale (Yuck!) and intends to make him fall in love with her since she has no other prosperity to offer. Lily thinks to herself, "Beat about the question as she would, she knew the outcome of it was that she must try and marry Rosedale."(Wharton, 200). Lily has come the believe that it's marry Rosedale or be voted of the popularity island forever. It's going to be interesting to see how the story plays out...