Question

Which of the following themes are developed throughout Kate Chopin's 'The Story of an Hour'?
(Select the three correct answers.) "The Story of an Hour" Kate Chopin (3 points)
The celebration of everlasting love and marital happiness.
The oppressive nature of marriage for women in the 19th century.
The desire for personal freedom and self-determination.
The importance of showing grief publicly to honor the dead.
The pursuit of wealth as a way to achieve fulfillment.
The conflict between a person's private self and public identity.

Answer 1

Correct selections (three):

- The oppressive nature of marriage for women in the 19th century.
(Mrs. Mallard feels confined by her marriage; her reaction to her husband's death suggests marriage was limiting.)

- The desire for personal freedom and self-determination.
(She experiences thrilling relief and envisions a life of independence and choice.)

- The conflict between a person's private self and public identity.
(Her private joy at newfound freedom contrasts sharply with the public display of grief expected of her.)

The other options (celebration of everlasting love, importance of showing grief publicly, pursuit of wealth) are not central themes of the story.