The Awakening · Chapter
Chapter XXXVII explained
Edna visits Madame Ratignolle during childbirth, witnessing the painful and exhausting labor.
What happens
Edna visits Madame Ratignolle during childbirth, witnessing the painful and exhausting labor. Despite her discomfort and a growing sense of dread, she stays to support her friend. After the birth, Adèle urges Edna to 'think of the children,' a plea that resonates deeply with Edna's internal conflict.
Themes in this chapter
Marriage and Motherhood as Social Institutions
Adèle's childbirth scene underscores the physical and emotional demands of motherhood, reinforcing societal expectations of women's roles.
Freedom vs. Confinement
Edna's internal revolt against the 'ways of Nature' and her desire to escape highlight her struggle between duty and personal freedom.
Characters to notice
- Edna Pontellier
Visits Adèle during childbirth, feeling uneasy and revolted by the ordeal, yet remains out of duty.
- Adèle Ratignolle
In the throes of labor, she is anxious and in pain, relying on Edna's presence and later imploring her to remember her children.
- Monsieur Ratignolle
Mentions Edna's presence as a comfort to his wife; he is seen preparing medicine in the drug store.
- Doctor Mandelet
Arrives late to attend Adèle; he is accustomed to her upbraidings and greets Edna warmly.
Key passages
“Think of the children, Edna. Oh think of the children! Remember them!”
Adèle urges Edna to prioritize her children above all else, a reminder of maternal duty.
This plea directly challenges Edna's growing independence and foreshadows her ultimate decision.
“With an inward agony, with a flaming, outspoken revolt against the ways of Nature, she witnessed the scene of torture.”
Edna feels a deep, rebellious anguish as she watches the painful childbirth, resenting the natural process.
Highlights Edna's alienation from traditional womanhood and her internal conflict.