Dr Mandelet's Role In The Awakening

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Recommended: Gender themes in literature

Kate Chopin, author of The Awakening, incorporates Doctor Mandelet into the story to reinforce the themes of the need for individual freedom vs fitting into a society and marriage and its power structure. Doctor Mandelet is a semi-retired doctor who plays the role of a doctor, psychologist, and marriage counselor in the novel. Constantly throughout the book, Chopin displays the Doctor as a wise man who is understanding of Edna’s predicament.
Doctor Mandelet first appears in the novel when Mr. Pontellier pays him a visit to discuss his concerns about Edna. The Doctor who “bore a reputation for wisdom rather than skill,”(69) was always available for consultation. Because of his range of knowledge and experience, Doctor Mandelet does not have traditional beliefs compared to other men in the novel. After Mr. Pontellier complained about Edna’s odd actions and her lack of completing her household chores, he responded by saying, “women are not all alike, my dear Pontellier” (70). Ultimately, Doctor Mandelet believes that women should be able to have more independence. He understands that all women are different and that each should be treated accordingly. Through the use of Doctor …show more content…

He watched as Edna transformed before him. He noticed that she is no longer a typical, traditional woman, but a person with opinions and emotions. During the dinner, the Doctor tells a story about a woman who comes to her senses after “seeking strange, new channels” (75) because he believes Edna is having an affair, and he wants her to apply this story to her situation. Edna caught the fact that the story was aimed at her; however, her response of a story about a woman running off with her new lover revealed her true desire of being with

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