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Edna Pontellier's Response Essay

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When Edna abandons her expected duties at home, what is Mr. Pontellier’s response? Why? p.49, 62 Mr. Pontellier is outraged when Edna abandons her Tuesday reception and asks, “Why, what could have taken you out on Tuesday?” (Chopin 50). He fears that he will lose his relationships with his business partners, citing, “Why, Belthrop could buy and sell us ten times over. His business is worth a good, round sum to me” (Chopin 51).
Why does Edna feel depressed after visiting the Ratignolles? Why does she feel a pity that Madame Ratignolle would never have the taste of “life’s delirium”? p.54 What does Edna mean? Edna feels depressed after visiting the Ratignolle because the couple epitomizes the typical domestic household. Edna arrives to meet Madame Ratignolle sorting laundry clothes that Chopin calls “her occupation” (Chopin 55). After leaving the Ratignolle home, she is disenchanted with “The little glimpse of domestic harmony which had been offered her” (Chopin 56). Edna pities Madame Ratignolle because she feels that she will never to do all that she wants to do because …show more content…

How is it different than her relationship with Robert? Edna’s relationship with Alcee Arobin is superficial and based on sensuality, not sincere feelings of love. She shows the contrast between the two feelings she feels with each man when she reminisces, “There was a dull pang of regret because it was not the kiss of love which had inflamed her, because it was not love…” (Chopin 84). Alcee Arobin merely serves as an outlet for Edna to experience physicality that she has never felt before and be more unrestrained with her sexual desire. The relationship is one of superficial tradition, with Alcee Arobin seducing Edna and Edna falling madly in love with him. Alcee Arobin dislikes the more philosophical conversations they have and prefers Edna to just show interest in him. Edna makes sure that Alcee Arobin does not interfere with what she wishes to

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