In Washington Square, James draws a minutely detailed portrait of life among the Knickerbocker New York aristocracy with his characteristic attention to historical accuracy. (James drew on his personal knowledge of Washington Square society for the novel. His grandmother lived at No. 18 Washington Square North and he grew up around the corner on Washington Place. In the novel, the main character, Catherine, stands alone, torn among the cultural forces that would have her marry into elite society though she is in love with someone she can never have--in this case, a "remarkably handsome" young rake, Morris Townsend, who wants only her money. Forbidden by her father to marry Morris, Catherine remains unwed until her father's death. When Morris reappears ten years later and again tries to wed her for her wealth, she rejects him, condemning herself to live alone rather than compromise to the corrupt society of both men and women that has constricted her whole life.