In Edith Wharton's The House of Mirth, elements of naturalism are used to show how the protagonist Lily Bart's life is controlled by her struggle between love and money. According to Encarta's electronic encyclopedia, ... belong to the New York high society by making herself appear to be rich by purchasing things she really cannot afford and by pushing away real love. Because of this struggle between love and money, Lily's position in society continually declines. Lily Bart's entire life has been involved in New York's high society. All she ... money is far more important to her, Lily pushes...

• Word Count: 622
• Approx Pages: 2
• Grade Level: High School