Kate Chopin: The Awakening - Edna´s suicide: The Awakening to inner freedom

Seminar paper from the year 2003 in the subject English Language and Literature Studies - Literature, grade: 1,7 (A-), University of Freiburg (English Seminar), course: Seminar, language: English, abstract: In this research paper I will analyse the main character of Kate Chopin's The Awakening, Edna Pontellier, and discuss reasons for her suicide. Edna step by step relieves herself from the obligations of her surrounding and undergoes a development that leads to new strength and independence. However, Edna never succeeds in reaching full individuality and goes the only possible way: she commits suicide. The novel gives several hints that lead to the conclusion that Edna's suicide is an act of liberalization. Edna is surrounded by a society she cannot identify with and does not want to be part of. The role of the woman in the 19 th century was clearly limited to being a mother and wife. Edna does not feel satisfied with this life, as she desires to make her own rules and decisions. During her awakening, she brakes free from the social conventions and tries to lead an independent life. Yet although Edna begins to be independent, the only way she can complete her intention is to commit suicide.