The Portrait of a Lady by Henry James (Hardcover)

Description

“The Portrait of a Lady” is a novel by Henry James, first published in serial form in The Atlantic Monthly and Macmillan’s Magazine in 1880–81 and then as a book in 1881. It is one of James’s most popular and widely-read novels and is considered a masterpiece of 19th-century literature.

The novel follows the story of Isabel Archer, a young and independent American woman who inherits a large fortune. With her newfound wealth, Isabel travels to Europe and is courted by several suitors. However, she is determined to maintain her independence and make her own choices.

The central theme of the novel revolves around Isabel’s struggle for independence and her choices in matters of love and marriage. Throughout the story, James explores the complexities of relationships, social conventions, and the consequences of personal choices.

Isabel Archer’s character is often seen as a symbol of the new, independent American woman emerging in the late 19th century. The novel delves into the conflicts between individual desires and societal expectations, as well as the consequences of choices made in pursuit of personal freedom.

“The Portrait of a Lady” is celebrated for its psychological depth, intricate characterizations, and the exploration of the moral and social dilemmas faced by its characters. Henry James is known for his intricate prose style, which adds to the complexity of the novel’s themes. The work is considered one of the prime examples of the psychological novel in literature.