Social Order Versus Personal F :: essays research papers

Social Order Versus Personal FulfillmentIn the regal, and picayune high-class New York world presented in The Age of Innocence in that respect is one particular, unch onlyenged rule of affable order. This rule of complete social grace has been, instead of branded in stone, been impounded deeply in the minds of every generation raised under the canopy of money and fashion. The desire for etiquette is so overwhelming that it manages to suppress the simple human yearnings for personal fulfillment, otherwise enjoyed by those not imprisoned by clothes or cash. This conflict amidst society and human emotion is extremely prevalent.      From the beginning of the tale, the description of rare New York and its inhabitants seems rigid. The people are bent on their customs and beliefs. From the promptness of the Beaufort Ball, the inflexibility of decorum (including dress, meals, and room presentation), and all relationships, personal or business. The clumsiness of t he conformity makes the presence of radicals such as Ellen, Mrs. Mingott, and even Newland, fodder for seditious scandal and gossip. But these radicals are merely people who are inflexible to the harness of the rich. They have attempted to achieve their own satisfaction, however nauseous to the rest of the order. Ellen and Newlands personal feelings for each other are passionate, burning, and intensely primitive. The clashing an unmasked relationship would have is extremely far-reaching. It would be devastating to Newlands wife, May. The waves would also be felt internationally by Ellens husband in Poland. Newland and Ellen would be ostracized by the finished upper-rank, ruining not only their own lives, but others as well.      The complex set of rules and regulations that accompany living in such a society is analogous to a house of cards. If one card is disturbed, the entire thing may crash down. The effect of diversion is foreshadowed by the high treaso n of Julius Beaufort. He debauches the whole system and gains the scorn of all the other elitists. tho scandal is achieved by Mrs. Regina Beaufort when she abandons her husband in time of crisis and attempts to get the plump for of her maiden family. The rules are broken and the aftermath felt far and wide. same catastrophe would follow if Newland and Ellen decide to fulfill their personal desire. They do pass the consequences and therefore remain reticent about their affair, and eventually gave up all hope and stay within the confines of