The Pursuit of Selfhood and Institution of Marriage in Kate Chopin’s The Awakening

Abstract

The Awakening (1899) is considered as one of the most renowned novel in American Literature. Through the character of Edna Pontellier Chopin discusses about the conflict between the individual identity and restrictive nature of marriage in American society of 19^th century. The Novel explores Edna’s awakening to her desires, ambitions, emotional independence and self- discovery. However, her pursuit of selfhood often clashes with expectations of society regarding wifehood and motherhood. This paper examines how Chopin critiques conventional marriage as social institution that supresses female individuality and demonstrates how Edna’s search for her liberation ultimately leads to her alienation and tragedy. This study also challenges traditional gender roles and social norms.