The Golden Bowl: The Classic Historical Novel of Love, Deceit, Betrayal, and Redemption

Annotated This edition has been annotated with the following unique Detailed BiographyAnalysis of the Author’s WorkAdded Historical ContextAnalysis of the 19th Century
The Golden Bowl, Henry James’ classic historical fiction novel of love, deceit, betrayal, and redemption.

“But when you love in a deeper and intenser way, then you are, in the same proportion, jealous; your jealousy has intensity and, no doubt, ferocity. When, however, you love in the most abysmal and unutterable way of all—why then you’re beyond everything, and nothing can pull you down.”

Henry James' The Golden Bowl is a masterful exploration of the intricacies of human relationships, deception, and moral consequences. The novel centers around the lives of Maggie Verver and her father, Adam Verver, both of whom are poised to enter marriages that seem ideal. Maggie is to wed Amerigo, an Italian prince, while Adam is engaged to Charlotte Stant, Maggie's close friend. However, unbeknownst to Maggie, Amerigo and Charlotte share a past romantic entanglement that threatens to unravel the delicate fabric of their new lives.

As the story unfolds, the symbolic golden bowl, a beautiful yet flawed antique, becomes a potent metaphor for the hidden imperfections in relationships. James’ intricate narrative delves into the psyche of his characters, revealing their inner turmoil and the subtle manipulations that drive the plot. The novel's psychological depth and moral complexity compel readers to reflect on the nature of truth and the ethical boundaries of love and loyalty.

James’ exquisite prose and the richly detailed settings transport readers to the opulent world of early 20th-century England, immersing them in a tale of betrayal and redemption. "The Golden Bowl" remains a timeless classic, offering profound insights into the human condition and the inevitable repercussions of deceit. Its enduring relevance and emotional resonance make it an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of trust and fidelity in relationships. After over 100 years, The Golden Bowl has earned its place among the great English historical fiction novels and all-time best-selling books.

Sneak

“Oh, how can I talk,” she asked, “of otherwise? It ISN’T, luckily for me, otherwise. If everything were different”—she further presented her thought—“of course everything WOULD be.” And then again, as if that were but “My idea is this, that when you only love a little you’re naturally not jealous—or are only jealous also a little, so that it doesn’t matter. But when you love in a deeper and intenser way, then you are, in the same proportion, jealous; your jealousy has intensity and, no doubt, ferocity. When, however, you love in the most abysmal and unutterable way of all—why then you’re beyond everything, and nothing can pull you down.”

Mr. Verver listened as if he had nothing, on these high lines, to oppose. “And that’s the way YOU love?”

For a minute she failed to speak, but at last she “It wasn’t to talk about that. I do FEEL, however, beyond everything—and as a consequence of that, I dare say,” she added with a turn to gaiety, “seem often not to know quite WHERE I am.