The Portrait of a Lady

"I always want to know the things one shouldn't do." "So as to do them?" asked her aunt. "So as to choose," said Isabel." ― Henry James, The Portrait of a Lady The Portrait of a Lady (1881) by Henry James recounts the story of Isabel Archer, an elegant and spirited woman from American who moves to Europe to live at Touchett's after her father's death. She inherits wealth from Touchett and, not long after, she finds herself attracted to Gilbert Osmond, who behind his fa ade of charm and refinement is spiteful, egoist, and unfaithful. Despite having all the ingredients to secure a great life and future, Isabel becomes a victim of her cruel destiny.