Edith Wharton 
The Seed of the Faith 

In ’The Seed of the Faith’ by Edith Wharton, the reader is transported to the lavish Gilded Age of New York, where themes of social class, morality, and the constraints of societal expectations take center stage. Wharton’s adept use of irony and vivid descriptions paint a vivid picture of the glittering yet suffocating world of the elite, offering a critique of the hypocrisies that lie beneath the surface of high society. This novella exemplifies Wharton’s keen observance of human nature and her ability to dissect the complexities of relationships and social dynamics with precision and insight. The narrative unfolds with a sense of inevitability, leading to a dramatic climax that leaves a lasting impact on the reader. Wharton’s impeccable prose and nuanced characterization make ’The Seed of the Faith’ a gem of American literature, showcasing her mastery of the psychological novel and her enduring relevance in the literary canon.