... in cities of the Midwest and western states. It was not until the 1890's that women in the southern states joined the bandwagon. The Awakening by Kate Chopin, set in the coastal region of Louisiana, was written and published during this time. Industrialization, urbanization and changing social norms in ... possessions that were cared for and displayed. They were expected to preside over their husband's household and be subordinate to his every wish. In The Awakening, this was avidly portrayed in the personage of Adele Ratignolle. She was described as "the sensuous Madonna", the "embodimen...

• Word Count: 3206
• Approx Pages: 13
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

... , but he had his brokerage business to think about and brokers deal in stocks, not hearts. (Deyo 112) As Edna progresses further into her "awakening,"" Leonce sees it instead as mental illness. Leonce is advised by the doctor to let Edna do what she wants. Once Edna moves out into her ... leaving her daughter alone in life and it makes one think if she ever loved her daughter at all. Mademoiselle Reisz is a friend to Edna in The Awakening. They do not really like each other, but they have a deep understanding of each other's passions and desires. "Mademoiselle Reisz is a pianist of marvel...

• Word Count: 3600
• Approx Pages: 14
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

... characters with deep symbolism to tell the story of a troubled woman and what drives her to suicide. Because of its complexity, it is difficult to classify The Awakening into a literary category. On the surface, it could be considered a good example of Realism. Edna Pontellier, a married woman, finds herself infatuated with another man ... have led them to a false self. The beauty and wonder of nature is an inspiration to return to the innocence of the true self. In The Awakening, Chopin introduces the beautiful Grand Isle, an island getaway in the Gulf of Mexico. It is a tropical paradi...

• Word Count: 4173
• Approx Pages: 17
• Grade Level: High School