How Does Kate Chopin Use Gender Stereotypes In The Awakening

In The Awakening by Kate Chopin, gender stereotypes are extremely prominent in their community. Women are seen as inferior to men. There were many rigorous guidelines that they would have to follow. Some of these qualities include; homemaker, caretaker for the children, femininity, delicateness, and most of all, listening to their husband. Women have been struggling with sexism for many years. Throughout the novel, there are many instances of chauvinism essentially showing how women are treated throughout their lives. This novel is important to analyze because although it shows prejudice against women, it also shows how some women choose to fight against it. Experiencing gender stereotypes drove Edna into temptation because she

Despite the fact that these actions seem small, it was a major step toward accomplishing her goal of being independent. This was completely against gender norms at the time. Once her husband arrived home and they sat down to dinner, he asked how her day was. She replies with how she went out, “‘Out!’ Exclaimed her husband, with something like genuine consternation in his voice, as he lay down the vinegar cruet and looked at her through his glasses. ‘ Why, what could’ve taken you out on a Tuesday? What did you have to do?’ ‘ nothing. I simply felt like going out, and I went out.’” (Chopin, 51) after hearing this, he warns Edna that deserting the callers could lead to damaging his own business and eventually the life they live. Mr. Potellier shows that his main objectives are superficial. He lives his life in hopes to remain in the upper middle class life. By Edna going against his wishes, it shows that her views and values are shifting away from his. On her day out she behaves as a free woman who does not seek anyone’s approval. Léonce shows very little respect or interest in Edna’s views. He quickly rebukes her for her change in attitude towards the world. Léonce treats Edna as inferior and almost as part of his staff. The conversation comes to an end and they are served their food. He realizes that the food is poorly made. He

This ideology is still prevalent in society today by putting pressure on women to follow specific rules. Similar to Edna, women are expected to prioritize their roles as mothers and wives. Women are supposed to behave a certain way that fits the standards of a “perfect woman”. Some examples being; feminine, kind, and obienent. All of which can be very detrimental to their identity. Feeling unfulfilled or unsatisfied in one’s life can create a sense of vulnerability which can lead to one being more impressionable to temptation.The novel represents that women need to break free of societal expectations to find fulfillment and happiness in their