The Pretty Lady

‘The Pretty Lady’ is a novel set against the background of London and English society in World War I. 'It is rich in contrasts of class and character' and has been described as Bennett's most seriously underrated novel. Deception and misunderstanding underlie the relationship of the central character with a courtesan, as he struggles to get to grips with an entirely different view of acceptable behaviour. It is also a commentary in passing upon the frenzy which underlies patriotism.