Symbolism And Symbolism In Kate Chopin's The Awakening

In Chopin’s The Awakening, symbols are extremely prevalent as a form of conveying a message or driving a point. The use of a symbol allows for individual interpretation which is important for this novel seeing as different understandings of Edna Pontellier’s actions do occur. More specifically, the symbol concerning the ocean and Edna learning to swim within it is significant for readers. This symbol is one which signifies momentous occasions for Edna such as improvements to her lifestyle or major self-realizations. As the prevalence of the symbol of the ocean continually appears, the influence of it reveals characteristics about Edna and the work as a whole. First, the symbol of the ocean holds a significant importance when it comes to displaying the progression of Edna as a character and the realizations that she encounters. It becomes increasingly

“A feeling of exultation overtook her, as if some power of significant import had been given to her to control the working of her body and her soul. She grew daring and reckless, overestimating her strength. She wanted to swim far out, where no woman had swum before...” (Chopin 55). At this point, Edna has recently learned how to swim and with that new skill came a self-realization that focused on freedom. This type of freedom for Edna was both physical and mental. She was physically distanced from other members of her society because they were still standing on shore while she was deep in the ocean. Mentally, Edna realizes that her current position, isolation, can lead to the tempting idea of casting off the ideals of her society. While she is out in the ocean, she is capable of overlooking and ignoring what others think of her and her decisions. “The voice of the sea is seductive; never ceasing, whispering, clamoring,