Chapter 24 Summary

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Edna and her father have a disagreement because she refuses to attend her sister's wedding in New York. Leonce, following Dr. Mandelet's suggestion, decides not to get involved in the argument, but he intends to attend the wedding himself to make up for Edna's absence. Edna's father disagrees with Leonce's approach and suggests that he assert his authority and use coercion to handle his wife. Leonce acknowledges that the Colonel may have coerced his own wife to an early death. Edna is relieved when her father leaves.

Right before Leonce departs for New York,  Edna becomes affectionate and realizes that she will miss him. The children also depart to stay with their grandmother in the countryside. Once she is left alone, Edna experiences a joyful and tranquil feeling. She wanders through the house with a fresh perspective, as if she is seeing it for the first time. She relishes in a solitary dinner and spends the evening reading Emerson in the library until she grows drowsy. When she eventually settles into bed, she experiences a sense of calm and restfulness that is new to her.

Expert Q&A

Can you analyze Edna's solitude in chapter 24 of The Awakening after Mr. Pontellier leaves for New York?

Refer to the lines in chapter 24 beginning with "But after all, a radiant peace settled upon her" up through "a sense of restfulness invaded her, such as she had not known before."

In Chapter 24, Edna experiences a "radiant peace" and a newfound sense of identity when left alone after Mr. Pontellier's departure for New York. She embraces her solitude, seeing her surroundings with fresh eyes and making provisions to enjoy her independence. Despite her enjoyment, Edna remains connected to her roles as wife and mother. Chopin uses Edna's solitude to explore the balance between domestic obligations and personal happiness, suggesting they need not be mutually exclusive.

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