According to The American Heritage Dictionary, the definition of awakening is "to become aware: awoke to reality". When you think of the word "awakening" the first thing that usually comes to your mind is a new train of thought, or a revelation. Kate Chopin's novella is entitled The Awakening. The question that is asked is, what kind of awakening happens in this text and how does it relate to the symbolism of the ocean? Do you think the results of this awakening are positive or negative?
             The Awakening tells the story of Edna Pontellier and the changes that occur in her thinking and lifestyle which all are because of a summer romance. At the start of the story, Edna is a young mother of two and the wife of a successful New Orleans businessman. The story opens on and island called Grand Isle, where Edna and her family are vacationing for the summer. During her stay on the island Edna becomes acquainted with Robert Lebrun, a younger man who pays special attention to her. She spends almost all her time with Robert, developing feelings for him. Adele who becomes a close friend and confidante of Edna's, tries to watch out for her friend seeing that she is falling in love.
             Adele warns Robert not to flirt with Edna too much, because she is not like "them", meaning that the creoles have a very expressive culture, they are very open and flirt with each other, on a very innocent level. Adele does not want Robert to lead Edna on because she knows Edna is falling for him. Edna is discovering new ways to live on her own and support herself. As Edna enjoys her stay on Grand Isle, she is changing slowly.
             Many changes have occurred in Edna but her awakening starts when Robert invites her to go swimming with him. Edna is very confused, at this moment, she doesn't know why she wants to go swimming with Robert. She declined at first but then just couldn't anymore, she knows it wrong, but she f...