Edna's Relationship In The Awakening By Kate Chopin

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Edna’s relationship with Leonce and the children is challenged. According to the book, she is not a motherly figure. She is more of a carefree person and did not feel she had to be with her children all the time “if one of the little Pontellier boys took a tumble whilst at play, he was not apt to rush crying to his mother’s arm for comfort, he would more likely pick himself up” (Chopin 16). This is from her husband, Mr. Pontellier. He believes Edna does not do her job as a mother and she does not feel the need to care after her children. As well as not being a motherly figure, Mr. Pontellier does not even value her as a person which could lead to the beginning of conflict in their relationship “You are burnt beyond recognition," he added, looking at his wife as one looks at a valuable piece of personal property which has suffered some damage.” (Chopin 7). Through this quote it is obvious that Leonce sees Edna as a piece of personal property instead of an equal partner. This affects the way he treats her and …show more content…

Her and her husband are both Creoles so they are both open to each other and it is not a surprise that they “understood each other perfectly. If ever the fusion of two human beings into one has been accomplished on this sphere, it was surely in their union” (Chopin 93). The relationship between Mr. and Mrs. Ratignolle is similar to that of a perfect couple. As a Creole woman, she can relate to her husband and obeyed all his orders. Apart from her husband, Adele was dedicated to her children as she advises Edna to act the same way towards hers “Think of the children, Edna. Oh think of the children! Remember them!”(Chopin 182). According to her, her children are her number one priority. Despite her difficult childbirth, she is able to maintain her love and responsibility over her children. She cherishes her children. Adele gladly accepts the role of being a wife and mother and sees motherhood as a noteworthy

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