The Awakening

3 Pages 804 Words

The Awakening

The Awakening, written by Kate Chopin, tells the story of a woman, Edna Pontellier, who undergoes a transformation from an obedient housewife to a person who is alive with strength, character, and emotions that she no longer has to repress. This metamorphosis is shaped by her surroundings. Just as her behavior is more shocking and horrifying because of her position in Grande Isle society, it is that very position which causes her to feel restrained and makes her yearn to rebel.
Adele Ratignolle is Edna’s close friend and confidante. However, the two women are nothing alike. Adele is the perfect housewife and mother, and the epitome of what a Creole woman should be. Adele lives her life for her children, always being sure that they are properly cared for, clothed, and educated. Unlike Adele, whose life is fulfilled through loving and caring for her children; Edna is “fond of her children in an uneven, impulsive way.” Nevertheless, her children are not enough to justify her life. Adele cannot understand hoe Edna could say that she “[will] never sacrifice herself to her children, or for anyone.” Edna’s being is taken on a new importance in her life. She is starting to realize just how important it is to be true to herself. She goes along with the way things are supposed to be, holds her socials, and tends to her house until she becomes aware that she needs more from her life. Also, Edna’s marriage to Leonce is safe, but there is no passion or excitemen!
t. She simply “[grows] fond of her husband, realizing with some unaccountable satisfaction that no trace of passion or excessive and fictitious warmth color her affection.” While this lack of emotion is enough to satisfy Edna for the majority of her marriage, after she begins to allow her true self to come forth, she feels trapped and seeks a way to escape. She realizes that she need dot fit the mold of the typical Creole woman. Her lifestyle suffocate...