Selfish Edna Pontellier in Kate Chopins The Awakening :: Chopin Awakening Essays

Selfish Edna Pontellier in The Awakening   Could the actions of Edna Pontellier in Kate Chopins novella The Awakening ever be justified? This question could be argued from two different perspectives. The social view of The Awakening would accuse Edna Pontellier of being selfish and unjustified in her actions. Yet, in impairment of the storys romanticism, Edna was in many ship canal an admirable character. She liberated herself from her restraints and achieved nearly all that she desired. Chopin could have written this novel to glorify a woman in gross out against conventions of the period. Yet, since the social standpoint is more factual and straightforward, it is the basis of this paper. Therefore, no, her affairs, treatment of her family and lovers, and suicide were completely unwarranted. She was not denied love or support by any of those nigh(a) to her. Ultimately Edna Pontellier was simply selfish.   A typically assumed reason for having an affair is tha t the persons spouse is, in some way, unsatisfactory. Perhaps by their affair, they are searching for a better source of love. This, however, was not a justifiable cause for Ednas adultery. Mr. Pontellier was a loving husband who tried to show his love for Edna in all of the ways he was able. Léonce showered his wife with valuable gifts. His life revolved around money, and he knew no other way to show his wife how much(prenominal) he loved her. He attempted to compensate Mrs. Pontellier materialistically for the lack of emotional support. While this may not be an ideal solution to the problem, it cannot be denied that Mr. Pontellier was trying to diminish the problems between them. Yet, even though it is understandable that she is upset that her husband lacks family skills, getting married was solely Ednas fault. The history of their relationship is far from perfect. Chopin states her trades union to Léonce Pontellier was purely an accident... He fell in l ove...and pressed his suit with an earnestness and an ardor which left nothing to be desired. He lucky her his absolute devotion flattered her (18). Edna was not fair to him when she married him without loving him. She grew fond of her husband (18), but fondness is not a good reason for marriage.