The Fruit of the Tree

Edith Wharton, an influential American novelist and short story writer, expertly depicted the lives and morals of the Gilded Age, drawing from her intimate understanding of New York's upper class. Her literary contributions earned her the distinction of being the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for Literature in 1921. Wharton's legacy continues to be recognized, culminating in her induction into the National Women's Hall of Fame in 1996, highlighting her impact on literature and society.