The Awakening, by Kate Chopin is a colourful tapestry of images and symbols that set up a template for the premise of the novel's primary theme of the pursuit of individual autonomy. Edna Pontellier, is the female protagonist whose dreams of freedom are underscored by several symbolic awakenings. Her awakenings impel her to behave freely and think unconventionally. She attempts to free herself from social mores ... her goal. Inevitably, this trapped creature meets her unfortunate death because she was not able to recognize the symbols surrounding her and heed the advice of both the parrot and...

• Word Count: 2022
• Approx Pages: 8
• Grade Level: Undergraduate

... literary techniques including, characterisation, symbols and setting, the idea that an individual cannot express themselves freely in society without feeling a sense of isolation is explored. Kesey, is then able to depict to a reader that in society today, individuals who follow and conform to institution and government rules, are manipulated into concealing their rightful individuality. Symbolism is used to portray that ... society manipulates individuals to conform, forcing them to hide their individuality. This is achieved through the symbol of the fog machine and the motif of invisi...

• Word Count: 1128
• Approx Pages: 5
• Grade Level: Undergraduate