CliffsNotes on

The Age of Innocence

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About the Author

About the Novel

Introduction
Brief Synopsis
List of Characters
Character Map

Summaries and Commentaries

Book 1: Chapter I
Book 1: Chapters II–III
Book 1: Chapters IV–VI
Book 1: Chapters VII–VIII
Book 1: Chapters IX–XI
Book 1: Chapters XII–XIII
Book 1: Chapters XIV–XV
Book 1: Chapters XVI–XVII
Book 1: Chapter XVIII
Book 2: Chapters IXX–XX
Book 2: Chapters XXI–XXIV
Book 2: Chapters XXV–XXVI
Book 2: Chapters XXVII–XXX
Book 2: Chapters XXXI–XXXIII
Book 2: Chapter XXXIV

Character Analyses

Newland Archer
May Welland Archer
Countess Ellen Olenska
Mrs. Manson Mingott

Critical Essays

Themes in The Age of Innocence
The Ironic Title of The Age of Innocence

Study Help

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Do you think the drinking age should be lowered to 18?

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Doesn't matter (unless you get caught)

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Summaries and Commentaries

Book 1: Chapters XIV–XV

bock—a dark beer traditionally drunk in the early spring.

epistolary style—of or suitable to letters or letter writing. Here, the distinct manner of the Countess’ letter writing.

grand tour—a tour of continental Europe, formerly taken by young men of the British aristocracy to complete their education.

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