The Portrait of a Lady

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Henry James' novel The Portrait of a Lady was first made available as a serial in The Atlantic Monthly and also in Macmillan's Magazine in the years 1880-1881 before being printed as a book in that same year. It is quite possibly one of James' most well-known long novels and is hailed by critics as one of his best works. The Portrait of a Lady tells the tale of Isabel Archer, an adventurous young American woman who finds it difficult to "confront her destiny". She receives a sizable inheritance from her uncle and later falls prey to the plotting of two American expats. It takes place in Europe, primarily in England and Italy, like the majority of James's works. The subjects of individual freedom, accountability, and treachery are also dealt with in a significant manner. It is expected that Isabel Archer, a stunning and vivacious American, would get married soon when her affluent Aunt Touchett brings her to Europe. However, Isabel is adamant about choosing her own destiny, so she doesn't think twice before rejecting two potential suitors. She then finds herself attracted to Gilbert Osmond, who is a cruelty incarnate beneath his facade of elegance and refinement. Isabel's tale of love and betrayal still touches audiences today because of its extreme poignancy.