"The Awakening" of Edna Pontellier

Paper Summary:

This paper analyzes Chopin's female lead character, Edna Pontellier, as she "awakens" throughout the novel. Symbolism is drawn from the many references the ocean, once caged and subsequently released birds and through interactions of Edna with both her husband, Leonce Pontellier and the male suitor, Robert Lebrun. It covers the "post-awakening" of Edna up to and including her suicide.

From the Paper:

"The first paragraphs of The Awakening describe a caged parrot, opposite a caged mocking bird, both hanging outside the doors of a vacation cottage, located at the Grand Isle resort. The caged birds certainly bear symbolic reference to the novel's female study, Edna Pontellier. Although confined and restricted, Mrs. Pontellier exists somewhat blissfully within her aristocratic society, squawking and chirping with little resolve or conviction. Moreover, the caged birds symbolize the naive Edna Pontellier, the fledgling creature, who, although she despises her perceived captivity, is yet unaware of an alternative."

More papers on "The Awakening" of Edna Pontellier:

• Analytical Essay # 1932 : "Psycho Analysis of Edna Pontellier"
• Book Review # 119139 : "Feminism in"The Awakening"
• Book Review # 110652 : "The Dissolution of Marriage in "The Awakening"

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