The awakening by Kate Chopin, depicts the heroine Edna’ Pontellier’s self-discovery and her struggles to defy gender norms. Edna’s characterization is reminiscent of Chopin’s feminist perspective and her fierce desire for independency and autonomy. Chopin had a strong sense of autonomy and refuses to submit to society’s expectations at a young age. Written in the 1890s, the novel alludes to the Societal Traditions and patriarchy during the 19th century Victorian era. The novel was banned for decade as it was criticized as “vulgar, morbid, and disturbing” when it was first published, but it is now acclaimed as a classic American literature. The awakening portrays the pursuit of independence and self-identity through the utilization of symbolism.

A recurring symbol in the novel is the bird, which embodies Edna’s spirit. The Caged bird symbolizes self-repression and the desires that Edna must repress to conform the social norms of Victorian womanhood. Women are inferior and held under the custody of men during the nineteenth century. Moreover, women’s duties are limited to domestic duties and the upbringing of children. Women must oppress their inner self that craves for passion and freedom and present themselves as obedient, modest, and submissive. Before Edna commits suicide, a bird flies over the water “with the broken wing was beating the air above, reeling, fluttering, circling disabled down, down to the water.” The injured bird that descends into the water with a broken wing symbolizes Edna’s final failed attempt at finding her freedom and autonomy.

 The Ocean symbolizes the freedom and escape that Edna craves for. Edna walks on down to the beach where she hears “The voice of the sea is seductive, never ceasing, whispering clamoring, murmuring, inviting the soul to wander in abysses of solitude.” (Chopin, 540) The vast ocean and an endless body of water “awakes” Edna as she is able to realize her strength as an individual and her propensity for freedom. This scene also foreshadows and prefigures Edna’s eventual suicide. In the end, Edna eventually realizes that her idealism of freedom, individuality, and independence are not realistic in the 19th century Victorian era and commits suicide in the ocean. Her demise ultimately sets her “free” from the social constraints she no longer needs to live in the repressive world.

In conclusion, The awakening, written by Kate Chopin, portrays the pursuit of independence and self-identity through the utilization of symbolism. Edna’s characterization reflects Chopin’s feminist perspective and her fierce desire for independency and autonomy. As an autonomous individual who refuses to adhere to the Societal Traditions, Edna defies the conventional standards that prevailed during the Victorian era.  Her strong assertion of individualism, freedom, and autonomy serves as a role model for women during the nineteenth century.