Undine Spragg arrives in New York from the Midwest with her father, determined to ascend socially. She secures her first major social entry by getting engaged to Ralph Marvell, though his financial shortcomings quickly appear. The reappearance of Elmer Moffatt, from Undine’s past, complicates her social ambitions. During their honeymoon in Europe, Undine realizes both her materialistic mindset and emotional detachment from Ralph. This part highlights the early tests of ambition, marriage, money, and societal pressures.
