The Portrait of a Lady

Set against the backdrop of Europe, the novel follows Isabel Archer, a vibrant American woman who inherits wealth after her father's death. Attracted to the seemingly charming Gilbert Osmond, she soon discovers his true, spiteful nature. As Isabel navigates her newfound wealth and societal expectations, she grapples with choices that lead her into a web of emotional turmoil. The story explores themes of freedom, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships, ultimately portraying Isabel as a victim of her own aspirations and circumstances.