Edna Pontellier's Role In The Awakening

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“There are some people who leave impressions not so lasting as the imprint of an oar upon the waters.” The Awakening by Kate Chopin is based solely on the idea of how the gender role was viewed during its time period (1899). The leading character Edna Pontillier primes through the novel in hopes of disregarding the “perfect” appearance that was wished to have in order to find herself. There were three men that had each their turn at attempting to control her existence (Leonce Pontillier, Robert Lebrun, and Alcée Arobin) but did not succeed.
Although Leonce Pontillier could be questioned on his decision towards being with Ms. Pontillier, he was Edna’s long-term husband. Leonce Pontillier was considered a “great husband” according to the other …show more content…
Robert Lebrun was a lady's man who was known for hanging with the married women of Grand Isle. One can recite that the interest of Robert was based entirely on a platonic friendship that led to the growth of intimate feelings. As stated earlier, Mr. Pontillier did not like the relationship between Edna and Robert owing to the fact of his reputation. Robert did not control Edna but he did repress her, making the thought of him coming back to her constant. When Edna found out that Robert was leaving to Mexico without telling her she had a feeling of betrayal. “Edna’s face was a blank picture of bewilderment, which she never thought of disguising.” (Page 41). When Edna confronted Robert on the idea of leaving without as much as having the respect of telling her, Robert had promised to write while he was away. As time passed Edna came into the conclusion he will not be writing to her, the realization coming from the reality that many of the people got letters except for her. When Robert returns and states the subtle yet explosive statement “Good-by because I love you” (Page 112) he activates the final strand of hope that stopped Edna from following her mothers footsteps into suicidal thoughts. Leaving her after such an intimate moment lived between the two and just ripping it away from her. The moment of loneliness brings her into her final moments as she undressed and went into the soul of the sea leaving the world just as she arrived
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