The Awakening-Isolation
Was isolation the key to a woman's independence in the 19th Century? Kate Chopin's novel, The Awakening, presents women as helpless creatures who are subject to all means besides personal beliefs. The main character, Edna Pontellier, strives to find the self-independence that she deems necessary. Through many attempts of evolution, Edna finds the worst to be her escape.Edna's suicide is the last, and perhaps best, choice she makes for herself. The choice of suicide is brought upon Mrs. Pontellier because of the desire for freedom and independence. Consequently, Edna undergoes many strenuous endeavors to possess these qualities. Throughout the novel, Edna attempts, in many ways, to find the freedom and independence that she seeks. The first effort put forth by Edna is her lustful aspirations for Robert. While in Grand Isle, Mrs. Pontellier reviews th
e validity of the affair, wondering if it will give her ease. However, Edna's thoughts stay within her soul, going no further for the moment. At this point in the novel, Edna has tasted independence, and she knows what she wants. However, while she knows what she wants, she does not yet understand what she must do. Furthermore, Edna's turning point rounds here. Edna's affair with Arobin, poses as a realization that nothing will come of it; "...today Arobin, tomorrow someone else..."(pg. 188). Edna tries yet another feat, by moving from her house. Mrs. Pontellier considers that the possibility of having her own house will get her away from the ties between Leonce and herself. However, in doing so, Edna sets another tie between Robert and herself. Every path Mrs. Pontellier tries to make seems to go against her desire for independence; thus, it leads to
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Approximate Word count = 581
Approximate Pages = 2 (250 words per page double spaced)
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