Table of ContentsRole of Women in a Patriarchal SocietyConstraints of Societal ExpectationsConclusionThe Awakening, written by Kate Chopin, is a novel that explores various social themes prevalent in the late 19th century. Through protagonist Edna Pontellier, Chopin explores the constraints of societal expectations, the role of women in a patriarchal society, and the quest for personal freedom. This essay will analyze these themes and their implications in the novel, emphasizing the importance of self-discovery and societal rebellion. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The Role of Women in a Patriarchal Society One of the central themes of The Awakening is the role of women in a patriarchal society. In the late 1800s, women were expected to conform to societal norms and prioritize their roles as wives and mothers. Edna Pontellier, however, questions these expectations and seeks to define her own identity outside of her roles as wife and mother. Through her awakening, Edna realizes that she desires more than simply meeting society's expectations. In the novel, Edna's marriage to Léonce Pontellier represents the traditional expectations placed on women at that time. Léonce considers Edna his possession and expects her to be a devoted wife, meeting his needs and those of their children. However, Edna's awakening leads her to question these roles and seek independence. Chopin uses the character of Adèle Ratignolle, Edna's friend and incarnation of the ideal woman in society, to contrast with Edna's rebellion. Adèle perfectly embodies the societal expectations of women, devoting herself to her husband and children. She represents the idealized “mother-woman” who neglects her own desires and ambitions for the sake of her family. Through the striking contrast between Adele and Edna, Chopin highlights the limits imposed on women by society. Edna's journey toward self-discovery and personal freedom is further amplified by her relationships with other men in the novel. Robert Lebrun, a young man with whom she falls in love, offers her a glimpse of the passion and desire absent from her marriage. However, their relationship is condemned by societal norms, and Robert ultimately leaves Edna to conform to societal expectations. Constraints of Societal Expectations Another important theme of The Awakening is the constraints of societal expectations. Chopin explores the idea that societal norms and expectations limit individual freedom and self-expression. Throughout the novel, Edna struggles to free herself from the constraints of her marriage, motherhood, and societal expectations, which ultimately leads to her tragic end. Edna's awakening begins with her new interest in painting and her desire for artistic expression. The painting becomes a metaphor for his desire to free himself from the constraints of domestic life. However, her pursuit of this passion is met with disapproval from her husband and society. Léonce does not understand Edna's need for personal fulfillment and dismisses her artistic endeavors as frivolous. Additionally, Edna's decision to leave the family home and move into her own small house is seen as scandalous and unconventional. Society expects women to be dependent on their husbands and families, and Edna's independence threatens the societal order. Chopin uses the motif of water and swimming throughout the novel as a symbol of freedom and escape from societal constraints. The ocean is a place where Edna feels liberated and empowered, far from the stifling expectations of society. However, the ocean also becomes the.