in matters intellectual and artistic newland archer felt himself distinctly the superior of
these chosen specimens of old new york gentility; he had probably read more, thought
more, and even seen a good deal more of the world, than any other man of the

what is the meaning of the phrase chosen specimens, and why does wharton use it in her
description of newland archer?

а)
the phrase means "an inferior group." it represents newland archer's
sensitivity to the lower social classes, which creates tension throughout
the passage.
b)
the phrase means "an elite group." it symbolizes newland archer's elite
educational background, which is mentioned throughout the passage.

c)
the phrase means "a particular group." it highlights newland archer's
superiority complex, which underlies his personal and social perceptions
throughout the passage.

d)
the phrase means "a wealthy group." it emphasizes newland archer's
prejudicial attitude towards rich people, which explains his negative
perception of ellen in the passage.