The Portrait of a Lady (novel)

"The Portrait of a Lady," by Henry James, is a novel about Isabel Archer, a spirited American woman who inherits a fortune and seeks independence and adventure in Europe. As she navigates love, betrayal, and societal expectations, she confronts the constraints of her choices and desires. The story explores themes of freedom, identity, and the complex nature of human relationships. Through detailed psychological insight and rich character development, the novel examines how personal ambition can be shaped and challenged by external influences and internal struggles, ultimately questioning whether true independence is achievable.