From Madame Ratignolle's request to Robert to leave Mrs. Pontellier alone, a reader can infer that Edna may be hurt by Robert later in the novel. Madame Ratignolle is concerned that Edna is not equipped to handle a serious relationship and that Robert's affection or attention could lead to emotional turmoil for Edna. This highlights the potential risks and complications of the relationship, suggesting that Edna could be vulnerable to emotional pain if Robert takes his feelings for her too seriously.
“I only ask for one; let Mrs. Pontellier alone.”
“Tiens!” he exclaimed, with a sudden, boyish laugh. “Voilà que Madame Ratignolle est jalouse!”
“Nonsense! I’m in earnest; I mean what I say. Let Mrs. Pontellier alone.”
“Why?” he asked; himself growing serious at his companion's solicitation.
“She is not one of us; she is not like us. She might make the unfortunate blunder of taking you seriously.”
What inference can a reader make from Madame Ratignolle’s request to Robert?
Edna may be hurt by Robert later in the novel.
Madame Ratignolle is jealous.
Robert will never talk to Mrs. Pontellier again.
Mrs. Pontellier and Madame Ratignolle will become enemies later in the novel.
1 answer
1 answer