Newland Archer, an eligible young man of the establishment, is about to announce his engagement to May Welland, a pretty ingénue, when May's cousin, Countess Olenska, is introduced into their circle. The Countess brings with her an aura of European sophistication and a hint of scandal, having left her husband and claimed her independence.

Her sorrowful eyes, her tragic worldliness and her air of unapproachability attract the sensitive Newland. Almost against their will, a passionate bond develops between them. But Archer's life has no place for passion, and, with society on the side of May and all she stands for, he finds himself drawn into a bitter conflict between love and duty.