
About this episode
This episode explores the life of Undine Sprague as depicted by Edith Wharton, focusing on her social ambitions and the complexities of her relationships.
Edith Wharton, a masterful chronicler of late 19th Century New York Society, invites readers into the tumultuous life of Undine Sprague in this captivating novel. A beautiful and ambitious socialite from Apex City, Undine navigates the complexities of love, marriage, and ambition as she climbs the social ladder from New York to France, leaving a trail of broken hearts and shattered lives in her quest for happiness. Join us as we explore Whartons incisive commentary on the pursuit of status and the human condition. (Summary by Karen Merline)
People in this episode
Hosts: Karen Merline, Edith Wharton
Topics covered
- New York Society
- social climbing
- love and marriage
- ambition
- human condition
Keywords
- Edith Wharton
- Undine Sprague
- 19th Century
- New York
- socialite
- ambition
- love
- marriage
More episodes of Custom of the Country
- 046 - Chapter 46 · March 3, 2026 · 27 min
- 046 - Chapter 46 · March 3, 2026 · 27 min
- 045 - Chapter 45 · March 2, 2026 · 14 min
- 044 - Chapter 44 · March 1, 2026 · 16 min
- 044 - Chapter 44 · March 1, 2026 · 16 min
- 043 - Chapter 43 · February 28, 2026 · 14 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Custom of the Country podcast page.