Women have for ages been victims of abusive domestic situations. In “The Story of an Hour” Louise Mallard, the main female character, fails to prove the validity of the information sent to her by Josephine confirming her husband’s death. According to the telegraph message from her husband’s sister, Brently Mallard had been involved in a fatal train accident and lost his life. According to the book, Louise had longed to be free and this news delighted her as her future was about to be full of freedom.
Following the possibility of mister Mallard’s death, she fantasized about a life full of freedom and independence. Working away from home separated the two for long periods as they never spent time together. However, just as she continues to merry about her husband’s death, while going downstairs, she spots him coming home. In shock and disbelief, she collapses and later dies of a heart attack, hence the dominant phrase- death of happiness.
It is entirely unfortunate for Louise to celebrate her husband’s death even though no animosity existed between the two. Instead of confirming the news, channeled via telegraph, the lady commences celebrations immediately, only to be followed by shock and disbelief a few moments later. It is surprising how Brentley loved his wife but did not receive the same from her (Deneau, 2003). Therefore, she should have proved the news first and given the information some more time before breaking with joy.
This scenario also confirmed that she did love the marriage as Brently did. Therefore, the story acts as a warning to people in this digital era where information travels fast. For instance, it teaches individuals that they should be sure to validate news to ascertain their authenticity before concluding it is real. Additionally, one should be sure of their spouses’ intentions in relationships and learn how to create a good balance between career and family life.
Reference
Deneau, D. P. (2003). Chopin’s the story of an hour. The Explicator, 61(4), 210-213.