Introduction
“The Awakening” by Kate Chopin is a late 19th-century novel that follows the story of Edna Pontellier and her journey of self-discovery. Edna is a young wife and mother living in a patriarchal society, where women are expected to conform to the prescribed roles – to be submissive to their husbands, devoted mothers, and content with their place in society.
However, Edna finds herself increasingly discontented with these expectations and embarks on a journey of self-discovery, ultimately leading to her liberation. This essay will examine how Edna’s character aligns with the established roles assigned to women in 19th-century culture and the parallels between these roles and those of women and men in the 21st century.
Edna’s Character and Conventional Gender Roles in 19th-Century Society
In 19th-century culture, women were expected to fulfill the roles of devoted wives and mothers and to be subservient to their husbands. Edna is initially presented as a woman who conforms to these expectations, as she is a devoted wife to her husband, Léonce, and a devoted mother to her two sons (Khan).
However, throughout the novel, Edna begins to rebel against these anticipations as she realizes the limitations and restrictions they impose on her (Khan). She begins researching her uniqueness and desires, rejecting the idea that she must be subservient to her husband. She also chooses to prioritize her needs and desires over those of her children. As Edna extricates herself from societal expectations, she is likewise liberated from the roles prescribed for her as a woman in 19th-century culture.
Negotiating Conventional Gender Roles in the 21st Century
The themes examined in “The Awakening” remain relevant today, as many women and men continue to struggle with living up to societal expectations, particularly those concerning traditional gender roles. In the 21st century, gender roles are still heavily prescribed, with men expected to be the breadwinners and women expected to be the homemakers. However, there is an increasing recognition of the importance of individuals being able to investigate their identities and cravings and prioritize their needs. Like Edna, people today are increasingly determined to abandon conventional gender roles and explore their paths.
Conclusion
In summary, Kate Chopin’s The Awakening serves as a poignant examination of the roles society assigned to women in the nineteenth century, underscoring the vital necessity for individuals to break free from rigid societal expectations. By choosing to reject conventional roles, Edna Pontellier and individuals in the present day can successfully define their own paths and prioritize their personal needs.
Work Cited
Khan, Farhadiba. H. “Consolidation Through Rebellion in Kate Chopin’s ‘The Awakening’.” Journal of Language Teaching and Research, vol. 13, no. 6, Academy Publication, Nov. 2022, pp. 1243–50.