The Awakening

It was refreshing to read of Edna’s brave subversion against the social norm, and I was especially fascinated with her decision to commit suicide at the end of the novel. Unlike other women who adhered to the traditional domestic realm, Edna discovered that she can rebel and attain her individuality and independence. As Prof Messner mentioned in class today, Edna was given three choices in her life: to be a devoted wife and mother, a rebel, or a revolutionist. Edna’s suicide can be interpreted as her rejection to the constraints that were placed by the society as a rebel. Realistically, I find it absurd yet intrigued of her decision to abandon her children for the sake of her perseverance of individuality. Just as Edna previously mentioned to mademoiselle Reisz that she would give up her life, but not her self and soul for her children, Edna’s actions represented an unprecedented strength that some women wielded during her time. Her courageousness is admirable in a sense, but I would have taken a different approach if I was in Edna’s shoes and attempt to shoulder all possible tasks of a woman at the same time.


Which symbolisms are depicted in the novel other than birds, water, art, and clothes?