Age of Innocence Flashcards
What does the novel open with?
Newland Archer attending the opera - a key place for New York Socialites.
Who is Newland to marry?
May Welland
Why is it scandalous that May’s cousin, Ellen Olenska is there?
Olenska left her husband and is rumoured to have had an affair with his secretary - makes Newland want to marry May faster so he can support her in backlash.
Why does Newland begin to question social conditioning?
Sillerton Jackson comes to dinner, Mrs. Archer and Newland’s sister Janey, question slightly about Ellen.
Newland is inclined to support Ellen and this leads to questioning.
Why is Newland worried about May’s innocence?
As she has not experienced much of the real world.
Who helps Ellen to gain social standing in New York society?
The Van der Luydens - invite Ellen to a dinner after everyone refuses her invites.
What does Ellen say she desires?
To become completely American after having lived abroad for so long.
Newland is involved with Ellen’s divorce case. What does he tell her?
That a divorce would have negative social repercussions and she agrees not to.
Why does Newland ask May to get married sooner?
As he is not confident in her love for her - however May tells him that if there is someone else they should not get married. Her insight amazes Newland.
What does Newland tell Ellen in St. Augustine?
He admits he has feelings for her and kisses her.
Why does Ellen say they cannot be together?
As Newland has taught her to see the world like a New Yorker and therefore the love is unacceptable.
May’s parents agree to the marriage for one month later. How does Newland move through the wedding?
In a daze - looking for Ellen who is not there.
Later on in the novel, what does Ellen threaten Newland with doing?
She is anguished about their separation but if he hurts May then she will return to her husband.
What does Newland insist to Ellen in a carriage ride?
That they must find a way to be together but Ellen says they cannot - Archer feels oppressed and imagines May dying.
Ellen moves in with Mrs. Mignott in New York. What does this mean for their affair?
They can now conduct it but they will have to sneak around which Newland dreads.
