The Ambassadors by Henry James (Vintage 1970 Hardcover)

Description

“The Ambassadors” is a novel written by American author Henry James. It was first published as a serial in 1903 and then as a book later the same year. The novel is considered one of James’s major works and is praised for its psychological depth and exploration of the complexities of human relationships.

The story follows the character of Lewis Lambert Strether, an American who is sent to Paris by his wealthy fiancée to retrieve her son, Chad Newsome. Chad has been living in Europe, particularly in Paris, and his mother is concerned that he has become too involved with a woman of dubious reputation. Strether’s mission is to bring Chad back to America and to the responsibilities awaiting him there.

However, once Strether arrives in Paris and encounters the sophisticated and cosmopolitan world, he begins to question his own values and assumptions. The novel delves into themes of cultural differences, personal freedom, and the clash between Old World and New World sensibilities.

“The Ambassadors” is known for its complex narrative style and intricate exploration of the characters’ thoughts and motivations. James’s use of ambiguity and subtlety in the novel has made it a subject of study in literature courses, and it is often praised for its insightful depiction of human psychology and society.