The Portrait Of A Lady

A Masterpiece of Psychological and Social Insight

The Portrait of a Lady by Henry James, reissued in 1998 by Oxford Paperbacks, is a timeless classic of 19th-century literature. With elegant prose and profound emotional depth, James explores themes of freedom, identity, and the cost of independence through one of his most enduring characters.

A Young Woman’s Struggle for Autonomy

Isabel Archer, a spirited and intelligent American, travels to Europe in search of culture, experience, and a life of her own choosing. But when she unexpectedly inherits a large fortune, Isabel’s ideals are put to the test. Drawn into the intrigues of European society, she becomes ensnared in a complex web of manipulation, betrayal, and disillusionment.

A Rich and Nuanced Literary Classic

James's subtle narrative voice and deep psychological insight make The Portrait of a Lady a profound exploration of the limitations placed on women in a patriarchal world. The novel is both a critique of social conventions and a tragic study of a woman’s attempt to live freely in a world that won’t easily allow it.

Perfect for Readers of Classic Literature and Feminist Fiction

This edition features critical notes and an introduction that contextualizes the novel, making it ideal for students, book clubs, and lovers of literary fiction.