Freedom

    A theme that has become apparent to me while reading The House of Mirth is that of freedom vs. servitude.  I have come to realize that when Lily has money, she feels like she is free and independent.  However, when she is in debt or does not have enough money to buy the material items that she needs then she feels like a slave.  Edith Wharton states "that money freed her temporarily" (Wharton, 90).  This clearly shows that when Lily has money it causes her to not have to care about other things.  However, when she is low on money she feels depressed and chained down.  This theme tells me a great deal about how Lily was raised and helps me realize that she learned from her parents that when one has money one can have freedom.  I believe that as I continue reading, I will see more of Lily feeling like a slave.  I think that what is happening with Trenor will cause Lily to become in debt.  She will begin to really experience what it is like to be poor and having to become independent.  Lily is too dependent on money and others at this moment.  I wonder if in the end she will learn from her mistakes, become a better person, and see the reality of things.