The Portrait of a Lady

The Portrait of a Lady is often regarded as Henry James's greatest achievement. The novel tells the story of beautiful, intelligent, and headstrong Isabel Archer, as she leaves her native America and embarks on a journey of self discovery in Europe. Published as a book in 1881, it explores his familiar themes including the conflict between American individualism and European social custom and the situation of Americans in Europe. It also treats in a profound way the themes of personal freedom, responsibility, betrayal, and sexuality. American-born English author Henry James (1843- 1916), was one of the founders and leaders of realism in fiction and is considered to be one of the great British novelists. Please note: This is a vintage recording. The audio quality may not be up to modern day standards.Public Domain (P)2008 RNIB