Kate Chopin Books

This revision of a widely adopted critical edition presents the 1969 Seyersted text of Kate Chopin's novel along with critical essays—newly commissioned or revised for students —that read The Awakening from five contemporary critical perspectives: Feminist Criticism by Elaine Showalter The New Historicism by Margit Stange Gender Criticism by Elizabeth LeBlanc Deconstruction by Patricia S. Yaeger Reader-Response Criticism by Paula A. Treichler A sixth essay by Cynthia Griffin Wolff demonstrates how several critical perspectives can be combined. Each critical essay is accompanied by a succinct introduction to the history, principles, and practice of the critical perspective, and by a bibliography that promotes further exploration of that approach. The text and essays are complemented by an introduction to biographical and historical contexts of The Awakening, a survey of critical responses to the novel since its initial publication, and a glossary of critical and theoretical terms.

"The Awakening" is a frequently read novel in U.S. high schools, telling the story of Edna Pontellier, a young Creole wife in Louisiana. As she explores her identity at the turn of the 20th century, she prioritizes personal autonomy over societal expectations, leading to initial disapproval due to its themes of adultery and independence.

The Awakening, originally titled A Solitary Soul, is the story of Edna Pontellier and her struggle between her increasingly unorthodox views on femininity and motherhood with the prevailing social attitudes of the turn-of-the-century American South. The novel is set in New Orleans and on the Louisiana Gulf coast at the end of the 19th century, and it is one of the earliest American novels that focuses on women's issues without condescension. It is also widely seen as a landmark work of early feminism, generating a mixed reaction from contemporary readers and critics. Kate Chopin (1850-1904) was an American author of short stories and novels. She is now considered by some to have been a forerunner of the feminist authors of the 20th century of Southern or Catholic background, such as Zelda Fitzgerald. Her major works include two short story collections, Bayou Folk and A Night in Acadie, and novel The Awakening. Within a decade of her death, Chopin was widely recognized as one of the leading writers of her time.

The book presents a faithful reproduction of the original text, preserving its historical significance and authenticity. It offers readers a chance to engage with the content as it was initially intended, capturing the essence of the original work. The reproduction aims to maintain the integrity of the language and style, allowing for an immersive reading experience that reflects the time and context of its creation.

This perennial favourite Norton Critical Edition of Kate Chopin's modernist novel of marital infidelity is now available in a new edition.

The protagonist grapples with her identity as a housewife and a deep desire for personal liberation. In her quest for self-discovery, she abandons her domestic responsibilities to seek love and spiritual fulfillment, confronting societal norms that resist her aspirations.

The book is recognized as a significant work throughout human history, emphasizing its enduring relevance. Efforts have been made to preserve it by republishing in a modern format, ensuring that it remains accessible for both present and future generations.

Feminist Fiction takes center stage in this curated anthology, showcasing seven impactful short stories by renowned authors. Each selection was chosen for its significance and resonance within the feminist literary landscape. Readers will encounter powerful narratives such as "The Yellow Wallpaper" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman and "A Jury of Her Peers" by Susan Glaspell, alongside works by Kate Chopin, Gertrude Stein, Edith Wharton, Edith Nesbit, and Katherine Mansfield. This collection invites exploration of themes related to women's experiences and perspectives.

The story follows Edna Pontellier as she grapples with her identity as a housewife and seeks social freedom amidst the restrictive norms of Southern society. Her unconventional beliefs about femininity and motherhood ignite a passionate quest for self-discovery, leading her to reject domesticity in pursuit of love and spiritual liberation. As she navigates her desires, Edna confronts a world that struggles to accept her burgeoning independence.