Study Guide for “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin
Surprise endings are usually ironic. Irony is a contrast between what is expected and what
actually happens. There are three types of irony in literature. (See notes!)
1. Why are Mrs. Mallard's relatives concerned about her hearing the news of her
husband?
2. What is Mrs. Mallard's reaction when she hears about her husband?
3. Why does Mrs. Mallard eventually lock herself in her room?
4. What is Josephine afraid Louise will do? Why?
5. What true feelings does Mrs. Mallard have concerning her husband's death? Why
would she feel this way?
6. Find a symbol in the story? What does it represent?
7. Discuss the irony found in this story. What types of irony exist? Support with
examples from the text.
8. Discuss how this selection is an example of naturalism/realism.