Creole Women In The Awakening

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Kate Chopin’s The Awakening explores both the value of women in society and the ethics of Creole culture. The majority of the plot focuses on the misogynistic traits of society while simultaneously implying a covert gossip culture. Throughout her awakening, Edna continuously moves through a scale of belonging in society; this scale ranges from highly regarded, depicted by Adele, to outcast, characterized by Reisz. Near the end of her awakening, Edna begins rapidly shifting towards the extreme of the scale, becoming a rebellious outcast. Many reasons answer why society remains accepting of Edna; however, most of them seem to disappear as she continues her journey. Chopin allows readers to explore the theme of respect and reputation as Edna’s actions cause her to lose respect and lower her reputation but do not cause her expulsion from society. Society allows Edna to remain associated …show more content…
After Robert’s ignition of Edna’s flame, Mademoiselle Reisz attempted to keep Edna inspired to be individualistic. With these inspirations playing an integral role in her awakening, Edna lacks a reason for abandoning society. Therefore, Edna begins spending less time discussing life with Adele and shifts her attention to those deemed unacceptable by society. When Leonce examines the list of Edna’s callers he responds with “Mrs. James Highcamp. Hugh! The less you have to do with Mrs. Highcamp, the better” (Chopin 49). However, Edna no longer respects her husband’s wishes and persists on spending time with Alcée and Mrs. Highcamp, who lure Edna into the rebellious rule breaking side of Creole society. These citizens hold no high recognition, but nonetheless remain a part of society. Therefore, Edna becomes a part of the outcast society instead of removing herself from