Her white dress symbolizes purity, but because of the brown stripe, it can be concluded that Edna is beginning to lose her purity. Edna's hat is not intended for protection from the sun. Unlike Madame Ratignolle, Mrs. Pontellier does not care for her skin. Madame Ratignolle wears a gauze veil, doeskin gloves, and a pure white fluffy dress with ruffles. As the two friends reach the beach and seat themselves, Edna takes away her collar and unbuttons her dress at the throat. This action symbolizes Edna's dawning rebellion against the traditions of society. The removal of clothing signifies a step toward Edna's desire to reach freedom. As the novel progresses, the clothing is reduced. Soon, Edna is found to be wearing only a robe. Arobin finds her "in the old blue gown, with a red silk handkerchief knotted at random around her head." This scene is not the ideal picture of a married woman at this time period. Edna dislikes the "ladylike" clothing and rejects it. Again, she defies social convention. Edna's uneasiness in her husband's house causes her to buy a house of her own and move out. Before leaving Leonce's house, as Edna knows it, she arranges a social gathering. At this dinner party, Edna wears a golden gown. The gown is "the color of her skin." The flesh-colored dress symbolizes an even further removal of garments. As Edna gains her independence and freedom, she repudiates the customary articles of clothing. When the novel comes to a close, Edna's desire to achieve freedom is fulfilled. She realizes that she will not be able to gain her independence while living in society. Mrs. Pontellier returns to Grand Isle, and the seducing voice of the sea calls her name. Edna walks to the beach and swims for the last time, attaining her individuality and liberty. Finding her bathing suit, Edna puts it on. Still finding this attire restricting, Edna discards all her clothing. At last, Edna's attire does not hold her back.
Mzee Jomo Kenyatta Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, as founding president of the Republic of Kenya is arguably one of Kenya's greatest and most beloved leaders. Even though his physical presence is long gone, his vision for a unified and free Kenyan lives on, and remains a major source of inspiration not only to...
