Social Order Versus Personal F :: essays research papers

Social Order Versus Personal FulfillmentIn the regal, and superficial high-class New York world presented in The Age of sinlessness there is one particular, unchallenged rule of social order. This rule of complete social grace has been, instead of branded in stone, been impounded deeply in the minds of both generation raised under the canopy of money and fashion. The desire for etiquette is so overwhelming that it manages to suppress the simple human yearnings for personal fulfillment, otherwise enjoyed by those non imprisoned by clothes or cash. This conflict between society and human emotion is extremely prevalent.      From the beginning of the tale, the description of old New York and its inhabitants seems rigid. The citizenry are bent on their customs and beliefs. From the promptness of the Beaufort Ball, the inflexibility of decorum (including dress, meals, and room presentation), and all relationships, personal or business. The severity of the conformi ty makes the presence of radicals such(prenominal) as Ellen, Mrs. Mingott, and even Newland, fodder for subversive scandalisation and gossip. But these radicals are merely people who are unyielding to the harness of the rich. They have attempted to light upon their own satisfaction, however unsavory to the rest of the order. Ellen and Newlands personal feelings for each other are passionate, burning, and intensely primitive. The impact an unmasked relationship would have is extremely far-reaching. It would be crushing to Newlands wife, May. The waves would also be felt internationally by Ellens husband in Poland. Newland and Ellen would be ostracized by the correct upper-rank, ruining not only their own lives, scarcely others as well.      The complex set of rules and regulations that accompany living in such a society is analogous to a house of cards. If one card is disturbed, the entire thing may crash down. The effect of diversion is foreshadowed by the t reachery of Julius Beaufort. He debauches the whole system and gains the scorn of all the other elitists. Further scandal is achieved by Mrs. Regina Beaufort when she abandons her husband in time of crisis and attempts to get the backing of her maiden family. The rules are broken and the aftermath felt far and wide. Similar catastrophe would remark if Newland and Ellen decide to fulfill their personal desire. They do realize the consequences and therefore remain reticent about their affair, and eventually gave up all hope and stay at bottom the confines of