It is rare, even today, to truly venture above and beyond society’s norms and conventions. The Awakening speaks to both women and men, and is about the search for self and the journey to find truth and one’s place in relation to the world.Įdna needed to be freed from her constraints to be able to find herself. Edna represents the human need to discover and realize one’s true calling, one’s individuality in a society that encourages conformity. I felt Edna Pontellier’s longings, desires and her struggle. I heard its language and it spoke deeply to me. After several re-readings I am still as passionate about the work as when I was first introduced.
It was then that I became fascinated by the novel, Kate Chopin, its setting, and characters. I had wanted to visit Grand Isle, the setting for The Awakening by Kate Chopin, since I first read the book in my college freshman English class. The mild, warm ocean breeze had a rhythm all its own and came and went with each turn we took. Both windows were down to cool the humid August air. While driving, my husband and I noticed the many signs for “flying fish” and it confirmed my feeling of being a long way from home in Boston. It made me wish I wasn’t allergic to shellfish since the smells were everything I imagined Cajun food would be. Small towns, small homes, and bait shops line the side of the road, a land full of seafood restaurants and fishing gear to buy or rent. The slow pace gives you a chance to pass a rather scenic view of bayou life. The drive takes quite some time since the winding narrow road is accessible by only two cars at a time. Pontellier acts like he owns her body.Grand Isle, a three hour drive south of New Orleans, is on the outermost shore of Louisiana.
The sea teaches her to gain control of her movements and of her body, rendering it harder for her to obey when Mr. She wanted to swim far out, where no woman had swum before.
She grew daring and reckless, overestimating her strength. Her constant dips into the ocean awaken Edna in a very physical way (and not just sexually).Ī feeling of exultation overtook her, as if some power of significant import had been given her to control the working of her body and her soul. Even more importantly, Edna’s vacation at Grand Isle is also a key part of her awakening. As for the importance of setting the story in the Bayou State, the Creole lifestyle plays a key part in awakening Edna to the joys of being open and passionate. Edna’s story wouldn’t make much sense if it took place in a society where divorce is possible, or artistry is supported regardless of gender. The temporal setting is important because of the restrictive society in which Edna lives. Grand Isle and New Orleans During the Late 19th Century
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