About this episode
The episode discusses Edith Wharton's critique of American ambition through the character Undine Spragg's pursuit of wealth and status.
Edith Whartons 1913 novel presents a sharp critique of American ambition and social climbing, following the relentless Undine Spragg on her quest for wealth and status. From the fictional Apex City in the Midwest to the bustling streets of New York and the glamour of Paris, Undines journey is marked by her determination to secure her place in high society, even if it means navigating the complexities of multiple marriages and divorces. - Summary by Elizabeth Klett
People in this episode
Hosts: Elizabeth Klett, Edith Wharton
Topics covered
- American ambition
- social climbing
- wealth
- high society
- marriage
- divorce
Keywords
- Edith Wharton
- Undine Spragg
- American society
- wealth
- social status
- marriage
- divorce
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: Custom of the Country
Places: Apex City, New York, Paris
More episodes of Custom of the Country
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