The Awakening · Chapter
XX explained
Edna seeks out Mademoiselle Reisz, encountering obstacles and eventually visiting Madame Lebrun to obtain her address.
What happens
Edna seeks out Mademoiselle Reisz, encountering obstacles and eventually visiting Madame Lebrun to obtain her address. Victor Lebrun entertains her with gossip, and she learns of Robert's letters from Mexico.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
In this scene, Edna reaches an emotional and psychological peak by openly articulating her crisis of identity—…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Female Awakening and Self-Discovery
Edna's determined quest to find Mademoiselle Reisz reflects her growing independence and pursuit of personal fulfillment.
- Art and Creativity as Liberation
Edna's desire to hear Mademoiselle Reisz play the piano underscores the role of art in her emotional and intellectual awakening.
Characters to notice
- Edna Pontellier
Actively seeks Mademoiselle Reisz, visits Madame Lebrun, and interacts with Victor.
- Mademoiselle Reisz
Sought by Edna; her address is obtained from Madame Lebrun.
- Victor Lebrun
Opens the gate for Edna, entertains her with stories, and shares details of Robert's letters.
- Madame Lebrun
Welcomes Edna, provides Mademoiselle Reisz's address, and discusses Robert's letters.
- Robert Lebrun
Mentioned through his letters from Mexico, which Victor recites.
Key passages
“It was during such a mood that Edna hunted up Mademoiselle Reisz. She had not forgotten the rather disagreeable impression left upon her by their last interview; but she nevertheless felt a desire to see her—above all, to listen while she played upon the piano.”
In a particular state of mind, Edna sought out Mademoiselle Reisz, despite recalling their unpleasant last meeting, because she yearned to hear her play the piano.
Highlights Edna's conflicting feelings and her attraction to Mademoiselle Reisz's music.
“Victor was surprised and delighted to see Mrs. Pontellier, and he made no attempt to conceal either his astonishment or his delight.”
Victor was openly thrilled and astonished to see Edna.
Shows Victor's exuberant and unreserved personality.
“He remembered the contents, which in truth he rattled off very glibly when put to the test.”
Victor easily recalled and recited the contents of Robert's letters from memory.
Indicates Victor's familiarity with Robert's correspondence and his casual manner.
