Writing Assignment: Kate Chopin’s
The Awakening
1)
Kate Chopin uses the idea of an “awakening” in many ways in the novel. Discuss the ways in which Edna is awakened. Use SPECIFIC examples.
2) Support or refute the following statement: Kate Chopin sympathizes with Edna but does not pity her.
3) Discuss two of the following images and how they add to the themes of the novel, making specific references to the novel: the sea, the sand, the sky.
4) Contrast Adele Ratignolle and Mademoiselle Reisz. How are each an important part of Edna’s development as a person?
5) What is symbolic of the two lovers and the lady in black?
6) Compare the house on Esplanade Street and the “pigeon house”. How does each reflect the character of Edna Pontellier?
7) Support the following as a conflict in the novel: the individual against society?
8) Discuss Edna’s friendship with mademoiselle Reisz. Consider the reasons that
Edna visits her so often, other than just the letters from Robert.
Choose from one of the preceding options, combine options, or clear a topic with me.
Approximate length: 3-6 pages.