The Awakening

Edna's suicide in The Awakening signifies her ultimate escape from the oppressive societal norms and personal limitations she faces. Feeling trapped in her roles as a wife and mother, and unable to...

The antagonists in The Awakening are societal norms and expectations, particularly those regarding women's roles. These societal pressures conflict with Edna Pontellier's growing desire for...

The term local color is typically used to describe American literature works published toward the end of the Civil War (circa 1860). These works feature a focus on the unique features of people...

Minor characters in The Awakening highlight Edna's struggles with identity and societal roles. The young lovers symbolize equality and connection, contrasting Edna's traditional marriage to Leonce,...

The question above really is the central question of the book. In fact, it is one of the most contested questions in literature. People today still ask whether you can do what you truly want to do or...