045 - Chapter 45

045 - Chapter 45

From Custom of the Country by Edith Wharton

March 2, 2026 · 14 min

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

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