I would also recommend 'Xingu'. It's a shorter and rather humorous piece compared to some of her other works, but still manages to convey her astute observations about the social circles she was familiar with. It can be a fun and easy entry point into her body of short stories.
You could start with 'Roman Fever'. It's a very engaging story that showcases Wharton's talent for exploring complex relationships. It has a great plot twist at the end that will keep you thinking.
You could start with 'Ethan Frome'. It's a relatively short novel compared to some of her others. It's a powerful story set in a rural New England setting. It gives you a sense of Wharton's ability to create a vivid and somewhat bleak atmosphere while exploring themes of love, regret, and the inescapability of one's situation.
One of the highly regarded Edith Wharton short stories is 'Roman Fever'. It's a story that delves deep into female relationships, jealousy, and secrets among upper - class women. The setting in Rome adds an alluring backdrop to the complex emotions and revelations that unfold between the two main characters.
I think 'Roman Fever' is the most famous. It has a great plot that keeps readers engaged. The way it delves into the complex relationships between the two women and their past is really captivating. It also gives a good insight into the society of that time. There are other good ones like 'The Other Two', but 'Roman Fever' stands out more in terms of popularity.
Critics often point to 'Roman Fever' as one of her best. It has a perfect blend of a vivid setting, well - developed characters, and a plot full of twists. The way Wharton reveals the long - held secrets between the two friends is both shocking and thought - provoking.
Some of her best short stories include 'Roman Fever'. It's a story that delves into the complex relationships between two women and the secrets they hold. The setting in Rome adds an interesting backdrop to the tale of jealousy and long - hidden truths.
Another excellent one is 'The Other Two'. This story delves deep into the complexities of marriage and the pasts that people bring into relationships. Wharton masterfully shows how the main character has to deal with her husband's former relationships in a society where reputation matters a great deal.
Some of her best short stories include 'Roman Fever'. It's a story that delves into the complex relationships between two women and their hidden secrets and jealousies. The setting in Rome adds an air of elegance and mystery.
I think 'Ethan Frome' could be considered one of her best. It's a short but powerful novel that tells a tragic story of a man trapped in a loveless marriage in a harsh rural setting. Wharton's use of the New England winter landscape as a backdrop adds to the sense of desolation and the characters' hopelessness. It shows her ability to create a deeply affecting narrative with relatively few words.
Some of Edith Wharton's best novels include 'The Age of Innocence'. It beautifully portrays the upper - class New York society in the 19th century, exploring themes of love, social expectations, and the constraints of a rigid class system. Another great one is 'Ethan Frome', which is a rather tragic tale set in a rural New England environment, delving into themes of unfulfilled desires and the harshness of life.
Some might argue that 'The House of Mirth' is her best work. This novel is a scathing critique of the upper - class society. It follows the life of Lily Bart as she navigates the social world filled with gossip, manipulation, and the struggle to maintain her status. Wharton's writing in this book is sharp and incisive, making it a remarkable piece of literature.