The Awakening (Magill’s Survey of American Literature, Revised Edition)
At a glance:
- Author: Kate Chopin
- First Published: 1899
- Type of Work: Novel
- Genres: Long fiction, Domestic realism
- Subjects: Self-discovery, Love or romance, Sex or sexuality, Suicide, South or Southerners, Gender roles, Nineteenth century, Marriage, Obsession, Creoles, Women’s issues, Adultery, New Orleans, Ethics, Gossip
- Locales: New Orleans, LA
The Awakening begins with a seemingly insignificant event: Léonce Pontellier is disturbed while trying to read the newspaper. As Chopin reveals, however, this incident reflects the patriarchal structure of most late nineteenth century American marriages in which the entire family's activities are inordinately structured around the husband's wishes and moods, no matter how trivial.
The summer resort of Grand Isle is a setting that allows Léonce's wife, Edna, to confront her dissatisfactions with her marriage. Further, she can explore first her awakened sexuality through...
[The entire page is 1408 words long]
Join eNotes
Over 3,500 study guides, question and answer forums, literature criticism, reference content, and much more!
Navigate
See Also
