The Ambassadors Summary
Henry James

The Ambassadors Overview

Henry James' 1903 novel, The Ambassadors showcases an American abroad, revealing the effects that Europe has on him. Middle-aged Lambert Strether travels on an errand of his fiancée, the wealthy widow, Mrs. Newsome, who sends him from their home in Woolett, Massachusetts to Paris to bring back her wayward son, Chad. Strether's acquaintances turn into friendships as Strether slowly comes to realize why Chad has chosen to live in Paris. Strether, too, begins to appreciate the arts and culture to be found in Paris. When Mrs. Newsome sends her daughter to investigate the circumstances of Chad and Stretcher being waylaid, Strether must choose between the liberated lifestyle that Paris affords and his family back home.