# Chapter XXXVII explained — The Awakening

> Chapter companion for The Awakening by Kate Chopin.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_awakening_se/chapters/xxxvii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_awakening_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_awakening_se/chapters