French Ways and Their Meaning

French Ways and Their Meaning by Edith Wharton is a cultural commentary that explores the social customs behaviors and attitudes of the French people during the early 20th century. Drawing from her experiences living in France Wharton delves into the differences between American and French societies offering insights into French manners values and the nuances of their everyday lives. The book covers a range of topics from the French approach to family and marriage to the role of the individual in society as well as their views on art education and leisure. Wharton contrasts the French emphasis on culture tradition and refinement with the more pragmatic and individualistic nature of American society. Her observations are keenly perceptive offering a nuanced perspective on the intricacies of French life while also reflecting her admiration for the French way of living. Through a series of essays Wharton illustrates how the French blend elegance and practicality in their social customs offering readers a deeper understanding of French society and its cultural significance during her time. The book is both an exploration of French customs and a reflection on the broader cultural differences between Europe and America.