The classic novel of doomed passion, deception, and human resilience

Emerging from the grit and stigma of poverty to a life of fairytale privilege under the wing of her aunt, the beautiful and financially ambitious Kate Croy is already romantically involved with promising journalist Merton Densher when they become acquainted with Milly Theale, a New York socialite of immense wealth. Learning of Milly's mortal illness and passionate attraction to Densher, Kate sets the scene for a romantic betrayal intended to secure her lasting financial security. As the dying Milly retreats within the carnival splendour of a Venetian palazzo, becoming the frail hub of a predatory circle of fortune-seekers, Henry James unfolds a resonant, brooding tale of desire, betrayal, and remorse.

This edition contains a chronology, further reading, notes and an introduction by Millicent Bell discussing the inspiration for James's plot, his revisions to the novel and the complex character of Kate Croy.

Penguin Classics is the leading publisher of classic literature in the English-speaking world, representing a global bookshelf of the best works throughout history and across genres and disciplines. Readers trust the series to provide authoritative texts enhanced by introductions and notes by distinguished scholars and contemporary authors, as well as up-to-date translations by award-winning translators. “The Wings of the Dove represents the pinnacle of James’s prose.”—Louis Auchincloss