Dec 15, 2009

The Story of an Hour | Introduction

Although Kate Chopin is regarded as an important writer today, her reputation has not always been so strong. Known primarily as a Southern regionalist writer, or "local colorist'' during her lifetime, Chopin's stories and novels shocked many of her nineteenth-century readers. In the 1960s, with the rise of the feminist movement, critics rediscovered Chopin. "The Story of an Hour," first published in 1894 in Vogue magazine, is one of Chopin's briefest and most widely read stories. Louise Mallard's response to the news that her husband has been killed and her demise upon his appearance, exemplifies Chopin's beliefs regarding women's roles in marriage and feminine identity. The story was initially rejected by Century magazine, and by Vogue as well, and it was published only after Chopin's collection Bayou Folk garnered critical acclaim.

The Story of an Hour Summary

Chopin's "The Story of an Hour" is the story of an hour in the life of Mrs. Louise Mallard, a young woman whose wrinkles portray "repression" and "strength." As the story begins, the narrator reveals that Mrs. Mallard has "heart trouble." Her sister Josephine and her husband's friend Richards have come to her after hearing of a railroad disaster that has resulted in the death of Mr. Mallard. Both are concerned that the news will make Mrs. Mallard ill, and Josephine takes great care to tell her the news as cautiously as she is able.

Mrs. Mallard reacts to the news with "sudden, wild abandonment" and locks herself in her bedroom. In the solitude of her room Mrs. Mallard... » Complete The Story of an Hour Summary