The Awakening

When The Awakening was first published in 1899, it shocked the sensibilities of both the public and the critics. Kate Chopin, stung by the severe criticism, soon ceased writing. The novel all but disappeared until rediscovered mid-20th century as part of the women's movement. It is now widely read and respected as an exquisitely written novel ahead of its time. It is the story of one woman's struggle against convention and society, a woman who is awakening to her fuller “unlimited” humanity. Twenty-eight-year-old Edna Pontillier questions her marriage to her older husband, Leonce. As she begins to resume her artwork, she also questions her relationship with her children, whom she undoubtedly loves dearly. She frequently seeks the company of the young Robert Lebrun. Together they share a love of the sea and the romance of local lore. As their relationship progresses, and the risk with their friends and families increases, Robert forces himself to move to Mexico. However, this does not stop Edna from continuing her personal journey to awaken to her greater self—to nature, both within and without her. The primal, sensuous sea especially calls to her.