The Marne by Edith Wharton (1918)

Name: The Marne
Author: Edith Wharton

The novel revolves around the American widow Madame de Malre, who returns to her husband's family estate in France after his death. She finds herself struggling with the cultural and social differences between America and Europe, particularly in regards to the aristocratic French society she married into. As she navigates these complexities, she begins to form a bond with a young American architect, who is tasked with renovating the estate. Through their interactions, Madame de Malre comes to realize her own sense of identity and belonging.

By Edith Wharton · First published 1918 · Genre: Historical Fiction, War Literature, Drama · 12 chapters · 21,381 words

First lines

Ever since the age of six Troy Belknap of New York had embarked for Europe every June on the fastest steamer of one or another of the most expensive lines.

With his family he had descended at the dock from a large noiseless motor, had kissed his father good-bye, turned back to shake hands with the chauffeur (a particular friend), and trotted up the gang-plank behind his mother's maid, while one welcoming steward captured Mrs. Belknap's bag, and another led away her miniature French bull-dog -- also a particular friend of Troy's.

What this Textopian page supports

The Marne is listed on Textopian as a novel by Edith Wharton, dated 1918 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Novel
Author: Edith Wharton
Date: 1918 CE
Language: English
Genres: Historical Fiction, War Literature, Drama
Length: 21,381 words
Structure: 12 chapters, 330 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Work identity for The Marne by Edith Wharton
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Discussion starters

What should a reader notice first when entering The Marne?
How does this novel by Edith Wharton fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
Where does Historical Fiction first become important in the reading?

Similar titles

Genres

Historical Fiction — The narrative is set during a specific historical period, the First World War, and incorporates real events into the plot.
War Literature — The story revolves around the experiences of characters during wartime, specifically the Battle of the Marne.
Drama — The narrative focuses on the emotional struggles and conflicts of the characters.