... feelings proved too strong for many who read her novel. The Awakening would mark the end of Chopin's career: "The reading public was shocked by such a sympathetic view towards the actions and emotions of the sexually aware and independent female protagonist- (Burris 2). The Awakening is as much a portrait of society's values as it is the protagonist, Edna. The first look we have at Edna ... that she affectionately refers to as the "pigeon house- also serves as a representation of her escape. Another important symbol in The Awakening is the juxtaposition of the lady in black and the love...

• Word Count: 2280
• Approx Pages: 9
• Has Bibliography
• Grade Level: High School

... mother. He believes women must tend to their children, household duties, and their husbands alone. Therefore, when Edna begins to show signs of independence, he erupts with frustration and anger. The behavior Edna's husband displays is typical male behavior that feminist criticise and want to change. ... her model of behaviour. Edna admires her friend with an almost sexual interest. Chopin writes that she liked to "sit and gaze at her fair companion as she might look upon a faultless Madonna mirroring the oppressive male gaze-. She paints her portrait because "Never had that lady seemed ...

• Word Count: 1837
• Approx Pages: 7
• Has Bibliography