Introduction

The Awakening was written by Kate Chopin and published in 1899. It is set in nineteenth-century New Orleans, Louisiana. Kate Chopin, also the author of the short story "The Story of an Hour," was born in St. Louis, Missouri in 1851. Chopin drew from personal experience to write The Awakening; at the age of 20 she married, by the time she was 29 she had already given birth to six children, and she eventually became submerged in the Creole culture of New Orleans. The novel, which centered around Edna Pontellier and her inability to accept the motherly and wifely duties she was expected to have, was a social commentary on the role of women in an oppressive society. The Awakening became a staple in the world of literary feminism.

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Analysis: Chapter 18

In Chapter 18, the following is stated:

"'Perhaps I shall be able to paint your picture some day,' said Edna with a smile when they were seated. She produced the roll of sketches and started to unfold them. 'I believe I ought to workagain. I feel as if I wanted to be doing something. What do you think of them? Do you think it worth while to take it up again and study some more? I might study for a while with Laidpore.'

She knew that Madame Ratignolle's opinion in such a matter would be next to valueless, that she herself had not alone decided, but determined; but she sought the words and praise and encouragement that would help her to put heart into her venture."

I believe this scene provides further evidence of Edna's weakness. There she was, a newly awakened woman convinced that she no longer played by society's rules. Edna was almost like the goody-two shoes attempting to play the role of the bad child but still not able to fully encompass such a role. She didn't believe in allowing herself to be held back or in allowing her life to be dedicated by others' terms, but she still sought approval from Madame Ratignolle in a matter that was not in the latter's forte, symbolizing her inability to altogether free herself or be free.

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