The Custom of the Country

The narrative follows Undine Spragg, a determined Midwestern girl striving to elevate her social status in the competitive landscape of New York City. Through her journey, Wharton explores themes of ambition, class, and the complexities of social dynamics in early 20th-century America. The tragicomedy captures both the humor and the harsh realities of Undine's relentless pursuit of acceptance and success in a world driven by wealth and social standing.