Kenneth, a philosophy student, brings his recent fiancée to meet his philosophy chairman, Axel Voerd, at their house in the Connecticut countryside. His fiancée Victoria, a wealthy and superficial woman, is excited to meet his colleagues. However, Kenneth is nervous about how Victoria will behave when upset, given her lack of decorum. When the couple arrives home, Mrs. Voerd greets them without her husband. After touring their magnificent home, Mrs. Voerd tells them that Axel, her husband, isn't feeling well and won't join them that evening.

Before bed, Kenneth and Victoria bicker about pregnancy and their mothers' interference in their relationship, but by morning, their issues have been resolved. Kenneth finds a note from Mrs. Voerd asking him to pick up lunch from some ice lockers down the road. Victoria and Kenneth drive through the countryside, admiring a quaint church and bathhouse. When they return to the Voerd's home, however, they find a calm Mrs. Voerd who tells them Mr. Voerd has died. People come to pay their respects, and Kenneth and Victoria leave shortly after that. Victoria breaks up with Kenneth on the train home, citing their irreparable differences.