The Awakening · Chapter
Chapter XXII explained
Mr.
What happens
Mr. Pontellier visits Doctor Mandelet to discuss Edna's changed behavior. The Doctor advises him to leave her alone and suggests that her mood will pass. Mr. Pontellier mentions Edna's refusal to attend her sister's wedding and his own upcoming business trip to New York.
Themes in this chapter
Freedom vs. Confinement
Edna's refusal to attend her sister's wedding and her abandonment of social duties highlight her struggle against societal expectations.
Marriage and Motherhood as Social Institutions
The conversation between Mr. Pontellier and Doctor Mandelet underscores marriage as a confining institution, with Edna's rebellion seen as a problem to be managed.
Characters to notice
- Léonce Pontellier
Visits Doctor Mandelet to express concern over Edna's changed behavior and seeks advice.
- Doctor Mandelet
Listens to Mr. Pontellier's concerns and advises patience and non-interference with Edna.
- Edna Pontellier
Discussed by Mr. Pontellier and Doctor Mandelet; noted for her odd behavior and refusal to attend her sister's wedding.
- Margaret
Mentioned as Edna's sister with strong Presbyterian values.
- Sister Janet
Mentioned as the youngest sister who is getting married.
Key passages
“She won’t go to the marriage. She says a wedding is one of the most lamentable spectacles on earth.”
Edna refuses to attend her sister's wedding, calling weddings a lamentable spectacle.
Highlights Edna's rejection of traditional marriage as a joyous event.
“let your wife alone for a while. Don’t bother her, and don’t let her bother you.”
Doctor Mandelet advises Mr. Pontellier to leave Edna alone and not to engage with her unusual behavior.
Reflects the era's approach to women's emotional independence as a phase to be endured.