ow about her society. She really has been a part of it.
             The historical context of the novel is of great importance to understand the uses of wealth at that time. The families presented in the novels can be compared to known families in Wharton's time. For instance the Van Osburghs are the wealthiest family like the Astors in Wharton's days. Yatches and Motorcars were meant for pleasure trip which is very common these days. A family without wealth was hardly recognized in the society. The downfall of the Barts is a good example in the novel. Wharton at every stage seems to resent the craze for wealth and status.On reading the novel one may feel that Lily Bart is doomed because of her moral indiscretion. On rereading one will understand that it is because of her lack of wealth she faces the fateful consequence. She is accepted in the society so long as she has the prospects of inheriting her aunt's wealth. She is excommunicated as soon as her aunt disinherits her. Mrs. Trenor who hardly bothers about her husband making love to other woman detests his habit of giving loans to them. Wharton never once ceased to attack and criticize the New York aristocracy in her novels.
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