Is Undine an <a data-internal-link data-link-type="Literary Device" href="https://www.supersummary.com/antagonist/">antagonist</a> in this novel? Explain your reasoning, using at least three pieces of evidence from the novel.

What is Wharton’s commentary on Old Wealth and traditional values?

The Custom of the Country is labeled as a “tragicomedy.” In what ways is the novel both tragic and comical? What is significant about this tone?

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American Literature

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Edith Wharton

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Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Custom of the Country and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Custom of the Country Summary and Study Guide

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-10

The Custom of the Country Chapters 1-10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-20

The Custom of the Country Chapters 11-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-34

The Custom of the Country Chapters 21-34 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 35-46

The Custom of the Country Chapters 35-46 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Custom of the Country Character Analysis

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Themes

The Custom of the Country Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Custom of the Country Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Custom of the Country Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Custom of the Country Essay Topics