The Awakening · Question
How does The Awakening develop the theme of Sexuality and Desire?
Answer
The Awakening by Kate Chopin develops Sexuality and Desire across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
The novel explores Edna's awakening sexual and emotional desires, particularly through her relationships with Robert Lebrun and Alcée Arobin, challenging Victorian notions of female passionlessness and propriety.
The silent moments between Edna and Robert in the hammock are 'pregnant with the first-felt throbbings of desire,' highlighting emerging romantic and sexual tension.
Edna's physical and emotional response to Arobin's touch and kiss marks a significant step in her sexual awakening, as she grapples with feelings of infidelity and desire.
Edna's first kiss that truly responds to her nature, described as a 'flaming torch that kindled desire,' marks a pivotal awakening of her sexual self.
Evidence in the book
- The Awakening
The silent moments between Edna and Robert in the hammock are 'pregnant with the first-felt throbbings of desire,' highlighting emerging romantic and sexual tension.
- XXV
Edna's physical and emotional response to Arobin's touch and kiss marks a significant step in her sexual awakening, as she grapples with feelings of infidelity and desire.
- XXVII
Edna's first kiss that truly responds to her nature, described as a 'flaming torch that kindled desire,' marks a pivotal awakening of her sexual self.
- XXVIII
Edna's encounter with Arobin and her regret that the kiss was not from love highlight her complex desires and the conflict between physical and emotional intimacy.
- XXXI
Edna's physical response to Arobin's touch—'the response of her flesh'—and her eventual submission illustrate her awakening sensuality and the power of physical desire.
- Chapter XXXIII
The tension between Edna and Robert, and the mention of Alcée Arobin's reputation, underscore Edna's awakening desires and the societal dangers associated with them.
- Chapter XXXIV
Edna's jealousy over the Mexican girl and her intense reverie about Robert highlight her burgeoning sexual and emotional desires.
- XXXV
Arobin's detection of Edna's 'latent sensuality' and the unfolding of her sensual nature under his attention underscore the theme of emerging sexual desire.
