Edna's Suicide

At the time in history when Kate Chopin is writing The Awakening, America is experiencing many women s rights movements. For example, numerous women in this time period are speaking out about their right to vote, their positions in society and their overall purpose in life. In this novel, Edna is experiencing many of the same struggles as these women are. The main idea that sets Edna apart from these other women in society is …

…blindly towards a goal, which she cannot reach, a goal in which is impossible to obtain. If Edna waits a little while longer, she just might receive the prize in which she is striving so diligently to posses. As a result of impatience and weariness, Edna decides to exclude herself from the society that has caused her so much pain and turmoil. Edna strengthens her independence as she endures the struggles that hold her back.