The Never-Ending Conflict Between the Old Ways and the New Ways. Howards End is an estate with a rich history and cultural heritage cherished by the Wilcoxes, a rich family with traditional ideas. However, the half-German Schlegeles - the new aristocracy - are not that impressed, yet Ruth Wilcox sees Margaret Schlegel as the ideal owner. That's why on deathbed, Ruth leaves the house to Margaret in written note. The note is burnt by the husband Henry who grows fonder of Margaret with each passing day. Is Margaret bound to Howards End? And what does all of this have to do with the struggling Basts?

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