Diction In The Awakening

The Awakening, by Kate Chopin, is a powerful piece of literature written at the tail end of the 19th century which defines the story of Edna Pontellier and her struggle for independence from her family. More specifically, Edna wishes to cast off the shackles of her marriage, and seeks to empower herself through attracting the attention of other men. Chopin’s novel was highly controversial at the time, seeing as a woman “awakening” and acting on her own against a man’s consent was unheard of, but her proud brand of self righteousness is what has made women equal citizens today. This change within her had opened her eyes to the injustices of her life, and she wished to start anew. Through lavish language, captivating reasoning, and a tone grounded

As a woman herself, Kate Chopin fights to demonstrate that women are just as capable as men. Literary jewels litter her novel, and provide insight into Edna’s intellectual prowess as well as her own. Enriched sentences such as, “[g]radually and imperceptibly the interlude melted into the soft opening minor chords of the Chopin Impromptu”, prove to the reader that this woman is an accomplished author, and a highly educated one as well (p.64). Furthermore, Edna’s own language contrasts that of Chopin’s, as it longs to be furnished with similar intricate word choice. Often speaking in a direct and strong willed manner, Edna keeps largely to herself when in conversation with the other characters. Edna often will reply with simply, “no”, and refrain from justifying this rude language often times, and when she does it is frequently after a slight pause (p.108). Juxtaposing Edna’s diction with that of Kate Chopin shows two equally effective ways to command attention through language; Edna Pontellier prefers to keep to short and pithy responses, while Kate Chopin exquisitely details the surroundings and motivations of each character in the novel. Both display a commanding presence through their use of

Solid reasoning for her new passions lie in the decisions she makes on her own. Once away from Grand Isle, and without her husband or children around, Edna decides to move into a more modest, smaller house. This decision gives her the liberty she desires from her life and memories of her family, while also affording her the opportunity to appear normal in the eyes of her companions, as it does not make sense for one woman to live in a mansion all by herself. Moreover, Edna is even able to reason with herself as to why she is satisfied with her “awakening”, despite the negative reaction she has been met with by her many acquaintances. Edna confesses to the doctor that she feels, “it is better to wake up after all, even to suffer, rather than to remain a dupe to illusions all one’s life” (p.112). Chopin, by having Edna make these difficult decisions by herself, demonstrates Mrs. Pontellier’s resolve and character. A strong, independant woman is able to do as she pleases, and justify her actions rationally, which opens the audience’s eyes to the idea that a woman can be as free thinking as a