Washington Square
Henry James · 1843–1916 · USA / England
Why it matters
A plain, dutiful heiress endures her father's cold contempt and a suitor who may only want her money. James's leanest, most Austen-like novel is also his cruelest: a study in quiet, permanent paternal damage.
At a glance
psychological noveltragedy
Difficulty 4/10medium pace214 pagesClear, restrained early-James prose makes this his most accessible novel.
Where to go next
Henry James · 1881The Portrait of a LadyLvl 6Slow burn
Henry James · 1886The BostoniansLvl 6Slow burn
Henry James · 1898The Turn of the ScrewLvl 7Medium pace
Henry James · 1902The Wings of the DoveLvl 8Slow burn
Henry James · 1903The AmbassadorsLvl 9Slow burn
Edith Wharton · 1905The House of MirthLvl 5Medium pace