The House of Mirth

How does the novel argue that Selden was shaped by his environment? Analyze how Selden’s background affects his perceptions of Lily Bart. Choose three passages to examine Selden’s impressions of Lily.

Compare and contrast the appreciation of Lily Bart felt by the unmarried men Selden and Rosedale. What does each man hope to gain by relating to her? How do Selden and Rosedale each try to rescue her?

Analyze the differences in the characterizations of the worlds of Mrs. Bry, Mrs. Gormer, and Mrs. Hatch. How do these women’s social-climbing tactics differ? How are they similar?

Analyze the reasons for Lily Bart’s preoccupation with Selden and the consequences of her decisions regarding him for her life. What pulls Lily to Selden, and why does she distance herself from him?

Compare the novel’s characterizations of Gerty Farish and Grace Stepney. Why does Lily Bart place these women in the same category? What about them signals to Lily that they are of the same group?

Examine the differences in the publicity received by Lily Bart’s social set in the restaurant on the French Riviera and in the workroom of Mme. Regina’s millinery establishment. How are working-class attitudes toward the wealthy portrayed?

Analyze Wharton’s characterizations of the society marriages of the Trenors, the Dorsets, and the Jack Stepneys. What do the marriages all have in common, and how are they different? Highlight examples from the text to support your argument.

What motivates Carry Fisher to aid Lily Bart? How do Carry Fisher’s suggestions impact Lily’s development? Do Carry’s actions influence Lily to change in any way? Why or why not?