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It was still quite light out of doors, but inside with the curtains drawn and the smoldering fire sending out a dim, uncertain glow, the room was full of deep shadows.

Brantain sat in one of these shadows; it had overtaken him and he did not mind. The obscurity lent him courage to keep his eyes fastened as ardently as he liked upon the girl who sat in the firelight.
She was very handsome, with a certain fine, rich coloring that belongs to the healthy brune type. She was quite composed, as she idly stroked the satiny coat of the cat that lay curled in her lap, and she occasionally sent a slow glance into the shadow where her companion sat. They were talking low, of indifferent things which plainly were not the things that occupied their thoughts. She knew that he loved her—a frank, blustering fellow without guile enough to conceal his feelings, and no desire to do so. For two weeks past he had sought her society eagerly and persistently. She was confidently waiting for him to declare himself and she meant to accept him. The rather insignificant and unattractive Brantain was enormously rich; and she liked and required the entourage which wealth could give her.
During one of the pauses between their talk of the last tea and the next reception the door opened and a young man entered whom Brantain knew quite well. The girl turned her face toward him. A stride or two brought him to her side, and bending over her chair—before she could suspect his intention, for she did not realize that he had not seen her visitor—he pressed an ardent, lingering kiss upon her lips.
Brantain slowly arose; so did the girl arise, but quickly, and the newcomer stood between them, a little amusement and some defiance struggling with the confusion in his face.
“I believe,” stammered Brantain, “I see that I have stayed too long. I—I had no idea—that is, I must wish you good-by.” He was clutching his hat with both hands, and probably did not perceive that she was extending her hand to him, her presence of mind had not completely deserted her; but she could not have trusted herself to speak.
“Hang me if I saw him sitting there, Nattie! I know it’s deuced awkward for you. But I hope you’ll forgive me this once—this very first break. Why, what’s the matter?”
“Don’t touch me; don’t come near me,” she returned angrily. “What do you mean by entering the house without ringing?”
“I came in with your brother, as I often do,” he answered coldly, in self-justification. “We came in the side way. He went upstairs and I came in here hoping to find you. The explanation is simple enough and ought to satisfy you that the misadventure was unavoidable. But do say that you forgive me, Nathalie,” he entreated, softening.
“Forgive you! You don’t know what you are talking about. Let me pass. It depends upon—a good deal whether I ever forgive you.”
At that next reception which she and Brantain had been talking about she approached the young man with a delicious frankness of manner when she saw him there.
“Will you let me speak to you a moment or two, Mr. Brantain?” she asked with an engaging but perturbed smile. He seemed extremely unhappy; but when she took his arm and walked away with him, seeking a retired corner, a ray of hope mingled with the almost comical misery of his expression. She was apparently very outspoken.
“Perhaps I should not have sought this interview, Mr. Brantain; but—but, oh, I have been very uncomfortable, almost miserable since that little encounter the other afternoon. When I thought how you might have misinterpreted it, and believed things”—hope was plainly gaining the ascendancy over misery in Brantain’s round, guileless face—“Of course, I know it is nothing to you, but for my own sake I do want you to understand that Mr. Harvy is an intimate friend of long standing. Why, we have always been like cousins—like brother and sister, I may say. He is my brother’s most intimate associate and often fancies that he is entitled to the same privileges as the family. Oh, I know it is absurd, uncalled for, to tell you this; undignified even,” she was almost weeping, “but it makes so much difference to me what you think of—of me.” Her voice had grown very low and agitated. The misery had all disappeared from Brantain’s face.
“Then you do really care what I think, Miss Nathalie? May I call you Miss Nathalie?” They turned into a long, dim corridor that was lined on either side with tall, graceful plants. They walked slowly to the very end of it. When they turned to retrace their steps Brantain’s face was radiant and hers was triumphant.
Harvy was among the guests at the wedding; and he sought her out in a rare moment when she stood alone.
“Your husband,” he said, smiling, “has sent me over to kiss you.”
A quick blush suffused her face and round polished throat. “I suppose it’s natural for a man to feel and act generously on an occasion of this kind. He tells me he doesn’t want his marriage to interrupt wholly that pleasant intimacy which has existed between you and me. I don’t know what you’ve been telling him,” with an insolent smile, “but he has sent me here to kiss you.”
She felt like a chess player who, by the clever handling of his pieces, sees the game taking the course intended. Her eyes were bright and tender with a smile as they glanced up into his; and her lips looked hungry for the kiss which they invited.
“But, you know,” he went on quietly, “I didn’t tell him so, it would have seemed ungrateful, but I can tell you. I’ve stopped kissing women; it’s dangerous.”
Well, she had Brantain and his million left. A person can’t have everything in this world; and it was a little unreasonable of her to expect it.

In "The Kiss," Kate Chopin explores themes of love, deception, and societal expectations. How do the characters' actions and decisions reflect their personal desires (what they want) versus societal norms (what society expects them to do)?

11 answers

In "The Kiss," Kate Chopin intricately weaves a narrative that exposes the tension between personal desires and societal expectations through the actions and decisions of her characters.

Nathalie

Nathalie represents a blend of personal desire and societal obligation. Initially, she appears to be drawn to Brantain due to his wealth and the lifestyle he can provide. She is aware of her societal standing and understands that accepting Brantain’s love would secure her comfortable future. However, her encounter with Harvy complicates her emotional landscape, revealing her genuine affection for him. When she asserts that she cares what Brantain thinks of her, it highlights her internal struggle—she is torn between the convenience of a wealthy marriage (to Brantain) and her authentic feelings for Harvy. Despite societal expectations to secure a stable and advantageous marriage, her connection with Harvy reflects her true desire for emotional intimacy, complicating her motivations.

Brantain

Brantain embodies the archetype of the earnest suitor blinded by his affection. His actions throughout the story—his eagerness to seek Nathalie's company and his visible dismay at finding her with Harvy—illustrate his deep feelings. However, his wealth positions him within societal norms that dictate who is worthy of affection and love. His decision to confront the reality of Nathalie's relationship with Harvy reveals his vulnerability, underscored by his desperate hope for acceptance. Nevertheless, he symbolizes an external societal pressure: his fortune makes him a desirable match, but it does not guarantee emotional compatibility. His reliance on external validation from Nathalie underscores his internal conflict regarding social expectations versus personal fulfillment.

Harvy

Harvy acts as the embodiment of casual charm and privilege, often engaging with society's norms without severe consequence. His interaction with Nathalie at the wedding demonstrates a carefree attitude towards relationships, as he dismisses traditional boundaries and exhibits a sense of entitlement derived from his long-standing friendship with her. His reluctance to conform to the expectations placed upon him (e.g., kissing Nathalie as her "husband's representative") represents a conscious decision to prioritize his personal desires over societal roles.

Thematic Exploration

The triangular relationship among the characters exposes how societal norms dictate the structure of romantic relationships, particularly in the context of marriage and courtship. Nathalie's initial engagement with Brantain reflects a societal expectation of marrying for security, yet her emotional connection with Harvy reveals her ultimate desire for genuine affection and connection, rather than mere financial stability.

The conclusion of the narrative, where Nathalie resolves to marry Brantain while holding onto a connection with Harvy, underscores the theme of compromise. It highlights the sacrifices made by individuals to navigate their desires within the constraints of societal expectations. Chopin ultimately illustrates the complexities of human emotion in the face of societal constructs, leaving readers to ponder the real cost of adhering to societal norms versus pursuing personal happiness. The juxtaposition of love, money, and the expectations of society serves as a poignant critique of the constraints faced by women of her time, making "The Kiss" a rich exploration of the interplay between personal desires and societal pressures.

Do you think Nathalie's choices are justified given her circumstances? Why or why not?

Nathalie's choices in "The Kiss" can be seen as justified, considering her circumstances, but they also raise complex ethical questions about authenticity, emotional integrity, and societal pressures.

Justifications for Nathalie’s Choices

  1. Societal Context: Nathalie lives in a society that places a premium on financial security, particularly for women. In this era, marriage to a wealthy man often meant the difference between a comfortable life and a precarious one. Her decision to pursue a relationship with Brantain, who is considerably wealthy, can be seen as a rational choice for ensuring her future stability.

  2. Personal Desires versus Financial Necessities: While Nathalie may feel a genuine attraction to Harvy, her decision to consider Brantain reflects a practical assessment of her situation. She understands the limitations imposed by her gender and the economic realities of her time. In this light, her choice to marry Brantain appears reasonable, as it secures her place in society.

  3. Emotional Conflict: Nathalie is faced with a dilemma between her desire for love (with Harvy) and her need for security (with Brantain). Although her eventual choice to align with Brantain might suggest a compromise of her true feelings, it can also be interpreted as a pragmatic decision influenced by her desire to navigate societal expectations while still seeking some level of personal fulfillment.

Counterarguments: Ethical Considerations

  1. Authenticity and Integrity: Nathalie’s choice to marry Brantain while maintaining her connection with Harvy may imply a lack of honesty. Is it fair to Brantain to accept his love when her heart seems to belong to someone else? This choice raises questions about emotional integrity and loyalty, as she appears to be playing along with societal expectations while harboring deeper feelings for another man.

  2. Manipulation of Relationships: By prioritizing her interests and the benefits of a wealthy marriage, Nathalie risks manipulating the emotions of both men, particularly Brantain, who is emotionally invested in her. This could be perceived as unethical, as it involves leading someone on despite not being fully committed to the relationship.

  3. Long-term Consequences: The implications of her choice suggest that, while she may attain immediate security through marrying Brantain, she might end up emotionally unsatisfied in the long term. This raises the question of whether the justification of her choice holds if it leads to personal unhappiness and unfulfilled desires.

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether Nathalie's choices are justified depends on the lens through which we view her circumstances. Based on the societal pressures of her time, her decisions can be seen as pragmatic and reflective of the difficulties women faced in navigating love, security, and societal expectations. However, they also invite critique regarding authenticity, emotional manipulation, and the potential repercussions of prioritizing material security over genuine affection. This complexity highlights the human experience in the face of societal norms, suggesting that while her choices can be understood, they cannot be entirely exonerated.

lets say that it is justified what would you say

If we assert that Nathalie's choices in "The Kiss" are justified, we would emphasize several key points that support this perspective:

1. Pragmatism in a Societal Context

Nathalie’s decisions can be seen as a logical response to the societal norms and economic realities of her time. In an era when women often had limited means of financial independence, securing a stable future through marriage was a common and rational course of action. Her choice to consider Brantain, who offers financial security, aligns with the pragmatic considerations that many women faced.

2. Balancing Love and Security

Nathalie embodies the struggle between personal desires and societal expectations. Her attraction to Brantain is enhanced by his wealth, which aligns with her social aspirations. While she does have feelings for Harvy, the conflict between love and practicality is evident. It demonstrates her ability to navigate complex emotional landscapes and make the best possible choice for her future based on available options.

3. Emotional Maturity and Self-Awareness

Nathalie’s candidness in expressing her discomfort following the kiss with Harvy indicates a level of self-awareness. She recognizes the potential misinterpretations of her actions and seeks to clarify her relationship with Brantain. This reflective nature suggests that she is making a conscious decision to take control of her narrative, positioning herself as an agent of her own life rather than a passive victim of societal structures.

4. Prioritizing Long-term Stability

From a long-term perspective, Nathalie may rationally conclude that a marriage with Brantain will provide not just immediate material comfort, but also the stability necessary for her future. The pursuit of emotional happiness with Harvy, while appealing, carries risks in a context where romantic relationships do not always lead to secure futures. Thus, her choice can be seen as a way to secure her position in life while acknowledging her complicated feelings for Harvy.

5. Navigating Social Relationships

Nathalie's decision to maintain a connection with Harvy while considering Brantain acknowledges the complexities of human relationships. She understands that social bonds often intertwine personal feelings with societal expectations. In this light, her actions reflect a nuanced understanding of her circumstances, revealing the multifaceted nature of love and friendship in societies that impose strict norms.

Conclusion

In summary, if we argue that Nathalie's choices are justified, we recognize her situation as a reflection of the broader societal constraints placed on women. Nathalie's decisions can be viewed as pragmatic, considering her need for security, her emotional complexity, and her role as an active participant in shaping her future. Her choices highlight the tension between love and societal obligation while illustrating the difficult realities faced by individuals in similar positions during her time. This understanding invites readers to empathize with her plight and appreciate the intricacies of her character within the constraints of her society.

sum it up plz

If we assert that Nathalie's choices in "The Kiss" are justified, we can highlight the following key points:

  1. Pragmatism: Nathalie's decisions are a logical response to the societal norms of her time, where securing financial stability through marriage was often necessary for women.

  2. Balancing Love and Security: She navigates the tension between her feelings for Harvy and her desire for security with Brantain, demonstrating her practical approach to relationships.

  3. Emotional Maturity: Nathalie's awareness of her feelings and her attempts to clarify them indicate her maturity and conscious decision-making in a complex emotional landscape.

  4. Long-term Stability: Choosing Brantain offers her the promise of stability and comfort, which may ultimately be more beneficial than a romantic relationship that could jeopardize her future.

  5. Navigating Social Relationships: Her actions reflect an understanding of the complexities of love and friendship within the constraints imposed by society, allowing her to maintain connections while pursuing her best interests.

In summary, Nathalie's choices can be seen as justified due to her need for security, emotional complexity, and the pressures of her societal context, inviting empathy for her situation.

In “The Kiss” by Kate Chopin Natalie shows her true self. The reason I say that is because she has passion and she wants Brantain and when she seen the wealth and how good of a guy he is that made her want him even more. I get the decisions that she made but I dont think they were justified.
how can i agree with this in 3 sentences

I agree that Nathalie's choices in "The Kiss" reflect her true nature, particularly her passion and desire for security. However, while her attraction to Brantain's wealth and character is understandable, it ultimately reveals a level of self-interest that compromises her authenticity. By choosing financial stability over genuine emotional connection, Nathalie's decisions appear less justified, as they prioritize societal expectations over true love and personal integrity.

can you make it like an 6 grader was saying this

I think Nathalie's choices in "The Kiss" show who she really is because she feels passionate about Brantain and is attracted to his wealth. While it's okay to want a good life, I don't think her decisions were justified. Instead of following her true feelings for Harvy, she chose Brantain just because he has money and seems like a nice guy. This makes her seem more interested in social status than in love, which doesn't feel right. So, even though I understand why she made those choices, they don't really show the best side of her.