The Age of Innocence, Part III summary
Part III of 34 · Book 1 · 9 min to read the part
In III, Newland Archer attends the Beauforts’ ball, where May Welland announces their engagement at his request, and the couple share a private moment in the conservatory. Their happiness is complicated by Ellen Olenska’s absence and Archer’s concern for social appearances, which he conceals beneath agreement with May’s concern for her cousin.
What happens
- The narrator describes how the Beauforts’ lavish hospitality secures their social position despite doubts about Julius Beaufort’s background.
- Mrs. Beaufort leaves the Opera, signaling that her annual ball begins shortly.
- Archer arrives nervously, fearing that the Mingotts might bring Countess Olenska to the gathering.
- May announces her engagement, and Archer joins her for a dance before they retreat to the conservatory.
- Archer kisses May, then falsely claims he lacks an opportunity to tell Ellen about their engagement.
- May explains Ellen’s absence through her dissatisfaction with her dress, while Archer privately assumes an unspoken social reason.
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In this part
What to notice
Archer treats silence about social discomfort as a virtue. His pleasure in May’s restraint connects their intimacy with the conventions surrounding Ellen.
Quick check
What reason does May give for Ellen’s absence from the ball?
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