Edna Pontellier
Edna Pontellier is the main protagonist in The Awakening and develops significantly throughout the novel in her attitude, behavior, and her character overall. Multiple experiences allowed her to become aware of her true self through thoughts that go unsaid and private interactions.
Major Turning Points
- The ocean creates a feeling inside of Edna that describes the anguish she was feeling the night that she was unknowingly crying over Léonce. The sea seems to be pulling her "inward" towards her soul and she realizes that she is her own person who has a relationship with the outside world.
- Edna begins to physically feel the emotions through Mademoiselle Reiz's music that she internally felt the night that the sea "spoke to her". She begins to tremble and chokes back on her own tears, fully appreciating the music. When Mademoiselle Reiz explains to Edna that she is one of the few that actually appreciate the music, Edna's awakening slowly begins to take form.
- Edna feels a sense of dare and empowerment when she goes down to the beach with the other individuals that attended Madam Lebrun's party. Even though she cannot swim, Edna jumps into the water, suddenly feeling like she has complete control of her body. After her first swim, Edna finally discovers herself and the sexual awakening that is occurring inside her soul.
- When Edna stands up to Léonce after he commands her to come inside, her character grows and develops tremendously. Creole women were considered to be part of their husband's "property" and at this very moment Edna decides that she will no longer allow Léonce to treat her as though she is his possession. She now does not understand how she listened to his commands for so long.
- When Robert announces his plans to leave for Mexico, Edna becomes enraged and heartbroken, creating yet another turning point. Edna finally realizes her feelings for Robert and her "awakening" officially begins. She compares her feelings to Robert to those feelings of infatuation that she had as a young child, believing that she once again is being denied of her life's desires.
- When visiting Mademoiselle Reisz, Edna comes upon one of Robert's letters that he has written Mademoiselle. Edna finally openly admits her love for Robert and she suddenly becomes more optimistic about life.
- Edna kisses Alcée for the first time after spending an extended amount of time with him. The kiss with Alcée created a passion that Edna had never felt before. This kiss will lead to multiple sexual acts that will leave Edna confused and guilty.
- Edna moves into the "pigeon house" and finally escapes all ties with Léonce. She has learned of Robert's return and also decides to go visit her children in Iberville. This is the first time in the novel that Edna feels genuinely joyful and happy.
- Robert returns and confesses his love for Edna. The two kiss one another and reveal to each other that they want to be together. Robert suddenly leaves one morning, only leaving a note telling Edna goodbye. Edna then returns to her depressed state, eventually leading herself to take her own life.