Instances of Symbolism-The Storm by Chopin

             Growing up in a fairly wealthy family, Kate Chopin was a very bright and well-educated woman for her time period. Her feminist views were far ahead of her time however. In her works, she wrote about topics that were morally important to her, such as a woman¡¯s right to be independent and the right to make one¡¯s own choices in life. In a time when women were expected to behave "properly" and sexual desire was considered to be something only experienced by men, Chopin spoke with exceptional openness about human sexuality. In ¡°The Storm,¡± creative symbolism is used to portray these ideas.
             The storm is symbolic for the chaos Calixta experiences as the storm rages on. Just as the storm appeared unexpectedly, so did Alcee¡¯s visit. Greatly occupied with the sewing machine, Calixta is shown to be a responsible housewife before Alcee¡¯s visit. But soon after their bodies touch, they realize the old-time feelings they still had for each other. ¡°The contact of her warm palpitating body when he had unthinkingly drawn her into his arms, had aroused all the old-time infatuation and desire for her flesh¡± (78).
             The next symbolism also foreshadows the adulterous act that is going to take place. While Calixta and Alcee were looking out the window, a bolt of lightning strikes a tall chinaberry tree in Calixta¡¯s yard. The event has obvious connotations of sexual energy and passion. The bolt of lightning and the chinaberry tree clearly refers to Alcee and Calixta¡¯s union a few minutes later. ¡°A bolt struck a tall chinaberry tree at the edge of the field¡± (78).
             The last symbolism portrays the social barrier between Alcee Laballiere and Calixta¡¯s humble family. While Bobinot is shown walking barefoot to Friedheimer¡¯s, Alcee is shown riding a horse. Alcee¡¯s horse represents his wealth and power, and while Bobinot¡¯s bare feet indicates he¡¯s a poor
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