1. Social Expectations in The Awakening
The novel's emphasis on Edna's social awakening helps to illuminate societal expectations of women during this time period and the sacrifices they must make to either conform to society or follow their hearts. ... The Angel was passive and powerless, meek, charming, graceful, sympathetic, self-sacrificing, pious, and above all--pure. ... "Edna had once told Madame Ratignolle that she would never sacrifice herself for her children, or for any one...I would give up the unessential; I would give my money, I would give my life for my children; but I wouldn't give myself.... In ...
- Word Count: 1289
- Approx Pages: 5
- Has Bibliography