The House of Mirth: Book I, Chapter XI

Edith Wharton uses very unique structure throughout her novel The House of Mirth. This chapter actually confused me at first and I found it very annoying, but after reviewing the structure I found her paragraphs to be quite organized. There are first a series of paragraphs that explain how Mrs. Peniston, in my opinion, is kind of a busybody and takes note on what everyone in town is doing. These paragraphs also mention that the details of Miss Bart's life, "Did not fall within the range of Mrs. Peniston's vision" (Wharton, 98). Next Wharton dedicates a few paragraphs to explain how Miss Stepney has a strong dislike toward Miss Bart. Wharton structures her paragraphs in such a way that she is able to explain the background information before discussing what is about to occur. Now that Wharton has set the scene for this chapter, she brings both of these characters together into one dialogue where Miss Stepney is able to get her revenge on Miss Bart.  Since Mrs. Peniston pays no attention to Miss Bart, it is able to come as a surprise when Miss Stepney shares the rumors that are circulating about Miss Bart. This structure also allows for a great deal of what I believe to be foreshadowing. Wharton points out that Mr. Rosedale finds Miss Bart to be the final variable for his equation to social success, and she also adds a great deal of emphasis on Mrs. Peniston being very angry before her dinner party. I wonder what Miss Bart will be getting herself into next...