Representation of the Sea (The Awakening by Kate Chopin)

The sea is mentioned rather frequently throughout the novel. The sea seems to represent Edna Pontellier’s sexuality. For example, the words used to describe the sea are not ones which are commonly used to describe a sea, rather, the author describes the sea as, “The voice of the sea is seductive…the voice of the sea speaks to the soul. The touch of the sea is sensuous, enfolding the body in its soft, close embrace.” (Pg. 25)

Edna Pontellier is also the type of woman who seems to have regretted being a mother at times, and wishes to seek freedom from the duties of motherhood. “She was fond of her children in an uneven, impulsive way. She would sometimes gather them passionately to her heart; she would sometimes forget them…. Their absence was a sort of relief….It seemed to free her of a responsibility which she blindly assumed…” (Pg. 33) By accepting motherhood an

This novel was written in the 1890’s, a time of Women’s Suffrage. During this time, women were almost taught to suppress their sexuality, as well as their opinions and thoughts on certain subject matters, including politics and the right to vote. With this in mind, Edna must have realized that since her marriage to Leonce Pontellier was not what she expected, she ended up finding love through Robert. With Leonce, she was a mere possession and someone with whom he thought he could buy her love. However, with Robert, Edna realizes that she finds true love, and of course contemplates the idea of fulfilling her sexual desires with him. For example, “She leaned over and kissed him- a soft, cool, delicate kiss…” (Pg. 177). “I love you…only you, no one but you. It was you who awoke me last summer out of a life-long, stupid dream.” (Pg.179)

d her ‘wifely’ duties as every other woman in the Creole society, Edna would not have been able to express her desires or sexuality. She would be free to discuss them, but not act upon them- that being the unspoken rule of the Creole society.

Also, in chapter V, pg. 24, “The water must be delicious; it will not hur

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