Introduction and Notes by Stuart Hutchinson, University of Kent at Canterbury

Widely regarded as one of Edith Whartons greatest achievements, The Age of Innocence is not only subtly satirical, but also a sometimes dark and disturbing comedy of manners in its exploration of the eternal triangle of love.

Set against the backdrop of upper-class New York society during the 1870s, the authors combination of powerful prose combined with a thoroughly researched and meticulous evocation of the manners and style of the period, has delighted readers since the novels first publication in 1920.

In 1921 The Age of Innocence achieved a double distinction - it won the Pulitzer Prize and it was the first time this prestigious award had been won by a woman author.