Summer

What are some of the social expectations that Edith Wharton highlights for women as they mature from adolescence into adulthood? What do these expectations say about the gender roles and social norms of turn-of-the century New England? Do these expectations differ based on class? Why or why not?

Teaching Suggestion: This Discussion/Analysis Prompt invites students to consider the Personal Connection Prompt in the context of the novel. Wharton’s text explores the themes of a young woman’s Coming of Age, The Disparity Between Social Classes, as well as The Rights of Women based on social class through the eyes of her protagonist Charity. As Charity matures, she becomes aware of both the expectations of her gender, as well as her own desires for a relationship. Charity’s plight insinuates a disconnect between what many women were expected to do and want versus the reality of their goals. Wharton’s novel explored many subjects that were considered taboo in the early 19th century. To extend the discussion, students might make a list of the “taboo” subjects addressed in Summer, such as pre-marital sex, pregnancy, and abortion, and discuss the rhetorical techniques the author uses to convey messages around these ideas. Students might then consider whether the same techniques would be effective in contemporary works of literature.