Isabel Archer, a young American lady, accompanies her aunt to England after her father's death, where she quickly wins the sympathies of her new surroundings, especially that of her cousin Ralph, who remains a lifelong friend. Exceptionally attractive, charming, and thanks to an unexpected inheritance, also wealthy, she can afford to enjoy her freedom on extensive travels through Europe. In the worldly and enigmatic Madame Merle, Isabel believes she has found a maternal friend. However, this leads her directly to the opaque Gilbert Osmond, whose snobbish charm blinds the naive American. Against all well-meaning concerns of her friends, she says yes to him. When she is confronted with Osmond's true nature, Isabel must admit to herself that she has fallen for the wrong man.