The Age of Innocence

Attorney Newland Archer happily anticipates his marriage to the sheltered and beautiful May Welland but begins to doubt his choice after the appearance of May’s cousin, Countess Ellen Olenska. Ellen has returned to New York from Europe after scandalously separating from her husband. Ellen's potential taint on the reputation of his fiancée’s family disturbs Newland, but he becomes intrigued by Ellen, who flouts New York society's fastidious rules. As Newland's admiration grows for Ellen, so do his doubts about marrying May. Ellen's decision to divorce her husband causes a social crisis for her family. To save their reputation, the family asks Newland to dissuade Ellen from divorcing. He succeeds, but in the process, falls in love with her. Afraid of his feelings, Newland begs May to move up their wedding date, but she refuses to shorten the traditional long engagement. Newland tells Ellen he loves her, and Ellen corresponds but is terrified of hurting May and the rest of her family. May and Newland marry. He tries unsuccessfully to forget Ellen, who moves from New York City to Washington, DC. A couple of years later, Newland discovers that Ellen’s husband wants her back. Ellen’s family wants her to reconcile with him and return to Europe, but she refuses. Frustrated by her independence, Ellen’s family cuts off her allowance, leaving her with no income. Newland desperately wants to leave May and be with Ellen. He urges Ellen to run away with him. Ellen is called back to New York City to care for her sick grandmother, who accepts Ellen’s decision to remain separated from her husband and agrees to reinstate her allowance. Back in New York City and under pressure from Newland, Ellen agrees to spend one night with him. Shortly after their conversation, however, Newland discovers that Ellen has decided to return to Europe. Newland decides to tell May he is leaving her for Ellen. May interrupts to tell him that she is pregnant and has already told Ellen about the pregnancy. Newland realizes that this is the reason Ellen is returning to Europe. Trapped, Newland stays with May for the sake of his child. Twenty-five years later and shortly after May's death, Newland and his son Dallas visit France. Dallas surprises his father by arranging a visit with Ellen, who now lives in Paris. At the last minute, Newland sends Dallas up to meet Ellen while he waits outside. Will Newland decide to see Ellen again after many years, or will he return alone to his hotel?