Themes: Search for Self

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Edna's spiritual and physical awakenings mark the beginning of her journey toward self-discovery. While LĂ©once views her actions as a fleeting madness, Edna recognizes that she is uncovering a desire to break free from societal limitations. In her pursuit of personal identity, she first declares her independence by refusing intimate relations with her husband. She then delves into her creativity by reigniting her passion for painting. She also reflects on her role as a mother and her relationships with others to better understand her interpersonal self. Ultimately, she embraces her sensuality by allowing herself to feel and act on her desires. Although Edna successfully discovers her true self, she realizes that the price of preserving her identity is too great.

Expert Q&A

In The Awakening by Kate Chopin, how does the setting contribute to the theme of self-discovery?

The setting is crucial in The Awakening . Chopin creates an environment of the South in which Southern women are expected to be docile, polite and domestic. Edna does not fit into this picture. For example, she dares to swim in the ocean and to ride horseback without a proper lady's accoutrements. In addition, her desire for personal happiness leads her to step out of the traditional woman's role by conducting a clandestine relationship with Adele Ratignolle's brother, Leonce. She feels oppressed by society; she no longer wants to live according to other people's expectations.

What are the main ways Robert influenced Edna's awakening in The Awakening?

There are a number of ways that Robert's life affected Edna's awakening.

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