The House of Mirth: Book II I-II

Modern-day Monte Carlo.

Although Edith Wharton's The House of Mirth is told mainly from Lily Bart's point of view, the author occasionally writes from the view of minor characters, specifically Lawrence Shelden. I think his is the most interesting perspective, as he lives in the same world as Lily, yet has such contrasting views on it. Lily stated in Book I she believed him as more of an outsider of high society, accepted by them but not bound by the rules. Having Selden's point of view during his trip to Monte Carlo gives the reader a chance to view his side of the story. Lily is certainly not an omnipotent narrator. On the contrary, she is extremely biased and often judgemental in her thoughts. Her narrowmindiness and obsession with wealth often trap the reader in her mindset. Selden's perspective not only gives the reader a break, but allows one to view what Lily cannot experience firsthand, gossip regarding her. Lily's actions are often motivated by current rumors or fear of new ones being spread. However, during Lily's point of view, it is nearly impossible to hear this gossip from the source. For example, during Selden's point of view the reader discovers Carrie Fisher believes Lily "works like a slave preparing the ground and sowing her seed; but the day she ought to be reaping the harvest she oversleeps herself or goes off on a picnic" (Wharton, 152). This is most likely a reference to Lily's inability to commit to a marriage, despite often ensnaring men such as Percy Gryce. A new point of view allows the reader a chance to delve into the mind and life of a new character.