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Comparison Of Desire In Their Eyes Were Watching God And The Awakening

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The Harmonious Coexistence of Duty and Desire Can duty and desire coexist harmoniously, or must we always sacrifice one for the other? Society often demands sacrifice and adherence to norms because of the solemn responsibility we bear towards others, also known as duty. The fierce yearning that ignites our souls and propels us towards personal fulfillment, can seem like a rebellious force pulling us away from our obligations. In both “Their Eyes Were Watching God'' and “The Awakening,” the protagonists’ journeys demonstrate that the coexistence of duty and desire allows individuals to fulfill their personal aspirations while making meaningful contributions to society, challenging the notion that one must sacrifice one for the other. In “The …show more content…

As depicted in the quote, “EDNA CRIED A LITTLE that night after Arobin left her. It was only one phase of the multitudinous emotions which had assailed her.” Edna’s tears signify her inner struggle and the complex emotions she faces. She finds herself torn between the expectations placed upon her by society and her own yearning for freedom and self-discovery. Duty represents the societal roles she is expected to fulfill as a wife and mother, while desire symbolizes her longing for emotional fulfillment and individuality. Her encounter with Arobin, a figure who represents passion and sensuality, stirs within Edna a profound awakening to her own desires. However, this newfound desire clashes with the obligations she has toward her family and society. “The Awakening” quotes “It was the first kiss of her life to which her nature had really responded. It was a flaming torch that kindled desire.” This quote encapsulates the transformative power of a single moment for the protagonist, Edna. This significant kiss represents a pivotal turning point in her journey of self-discovery. Prior to this experience, Enda’s interactions with others, …show more content…

Ah’ll take holt uh dat ax and come in dere and kill yuh!” encapsulates the struggle between duty and desire within a context of racial dynamics, revealing the inherent tension and power imbalances that influence individuals’ pursuit of personal fulfillment and autonomy. The quote underscores the complexity of the coexistence of duty and desire in a society where power dynamics and systemic inequalities influence individuals’ experiences. It serves as a reminder that duty, particularly when imposed by oppressive forces, can suppress personal aspirations and perpetuate injustice. The character’s impassioned words shed light on the struggles of marginalized individuals who are torn between societal obligations and their longing or autonomy and equal

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