Monsieur Ratignolle’s reaction to Arobin’s remark reveals that he is a traditional family man, unable to understand Arobin’s unconventional choices. While Arobin expresses a somewhat cynical view about societal expectations and the need to maintain appearances, Ratignolle seems to prefer to disengage from that line of thought, turning the conversation to a more socially acceptable topic. This indicates Ratignolle's alignment with traditional values and his discomfort with Arobin's more unconventional lifestyle and attitudes.
Read the excerpt from chapter 30 of The Awakening.
"There are so many inquisitive people and institutions abounding," said Arobin, "that one is really forced as a matter of convenience these days to assume the virtue of an occupation if he has it not." Monsieur Ratignolle stared a little, and turned to ask Mademoiselle Reisz if she considered the symphony concerts up to the standard which had been set the previous winter.
What does Monsieur Ratignolle’s reaction to Arobin’s remark reveal about the difference in the men’s characters?
Monsieur Ratignolle is a married man who loves his wife deeply, while Arobin cannot fathom such devotion.
Monsieur Ratignolle turns from the conversation because he is envious of Arobin’s carefree attitude.
Monsieur Ratignolle does not have Arobin’s sense of humor and is therefore deeply offended by him.
Monsieur Ratignolle is a traditional family man, unable to understand Arobin’s unconventional choices.
11 answers
read the excerpt from chapter 31 of The Awakening.
"Will you have a spray of jessamine?" he asked, breaking off a few blossoms as he passed.
"No; I don't want anything."
She seemed disheartened, and had nothing to say. She took his arm, which he offered her, holding up the weight of her satin train with the other hand. She looked down, noticing the black line of his leg moving in and out so close to her against the yellow shimmer of her gown. There was the whistle of a railway train somewhere in the distance, and the midnight bells were ringing. They met no one in their short walk.
What does Edna’s rejection of the jessamine reveal to the reader?
that she is losing interest in her relationship with Arobin
that she is torn between her two handsome young lovers
that she is tired from the evening’s affairs and needs sleep
that she will soon leave New Orleans and her family altogether
"Will you have a spray of jessamine?" he asked, breaking off a few blossoms as he passed.
"No; I don't want anything."
She seemed disheartened, and had nothing to say. She took his arm, which he offered her, holding up the weight of her satin train with the other hand. She looked down, noticing the black line of his leg moving in and out so close to her against the yellow shimmer of her gown. There was the whistle of a railway train somewhere in the distance, and the midnight bells were ringing. They met no one in their short walk.
What does Edna’s rejection of the jessamine reveal to the reader?
that she is losing interest in her relationship with Arobin
that she is torn between her two handsome young lovers
that she is tired from the evening’s affairs and needs sleep
that she will soon leave New Orleans and her family altogether
Edna’s rejection of the jessamine reveals that she is losing interest in her relationship with Arobin. The act of turning down the flower can symbolize her detachment and emotional state. Instead of embracing the gesture, she appears disheartened and disengaged, indicating a sense of disconnection from what Arobin represents. This suggests a deepening sense of dissatisfaction with her circumstances and relationships, suggesting that her feelings for Arobin may be waning.
Read the excerpt from chapter 30 of The Awakening.
The golden shimmer of Edna's satin gown spread in rich folds on either side of her. There was a soft fall of lace encircling her shoulders. It was the color of her skin, without the glow, the myriad living tints that one may sometimes discover in vibrant flesh. There was something in her attitude, in her whole appearance when she leaned her head against the high-backed chair and spread her arms, which suggested the regal woman, the one who rules, who looks on, who stands alone.
What does this excerpt reveal about Edna’s character?
Edna is comfortable wearing rich fabrics such as lace and silk, and feels completely at ease at the dinner table.
Edna plays the role of the gracious hostess very well, but is actually isolated from her peers.
Edna has no patience for her guests, but rather treats them as a queen may treat her loyal subjects.
Edna’s attitude is haughty, as required of a woman of her social stature living in New Orleans.
The golden shimmer of Edna's satin gown spread in rich folds on either side of her. There was a soft fall of lace encircling her shoulders. It was the color of her skin, without the glow, the myriad living tints that one may sometimes discover in vibrant flesh. There was something in her attitude, in her whole appearance when she leaned her head against the high-backed chair and spread her arms, which suggested the regal woman, the one who rules, who looks on, who stands alone.
What does this excerpt reveal about Edna’s character?
Edna is comfortable wearing rich fabrics such as lace and silk, and feels completely at ease at the dinner table.
Edna plays the role of the gracious hostess very well, but is actually isolated from her peers.
Edna has no patience for her guests, but rather treats them as a queen may treat her loyal subjects.
Edna’s attitude is haughty, as required of a woman of her social stature living in New Orleans.
This excerpt reveals that Edna plays the role of the gracious hostess very well, but is actually isolated from her peers. The description of her appearance with the luxurious fabrics and the regal demeanor suggests that she fulfills the expectations of her social role. However, her posture of leaning against the chair and spreading her arms implies a sense of solitude and perhaps a longing for freedom, indicating that despite her outward appearance of elegance and control, she feels disconnected and isolated from those around her. This highlights the duality of her character—one that conforms to societal expectations while internally struggling with feelings of loneliness and a desire for independence.
In chapter 33 of The Awakening, why are the names “Mrs. Merriman” and “Mrs. Highcamp” significant?
Their names directly reflect how Edna feels about the two women.
Their names have no importance and have no apparent significance.
Their names are direct reflection of their character traits and social standings.
Their names are a clear indicator of their rather poor social skills.
Their names directly reflect how Edna feels about the two women.
Their names have no importance and have no apparent significance.
Their names are direct reflection of their character traits and social standings.
Their names are a clear indicator of their rather poor social skills.
In chapter 33 of The Awakening, the names “Mrs. Merriman” and “Mrs. Highcamp” are significant because their names are a direct reflection of their character traits and social standings. The names suggest different qualities and social aspirations: "Merriman" can evoke a sense of being merry or content, while "Highcamp" suggests pretentiousness or an inflated sense of one's own importance. These distinctions in their names complement the way Edna perceives them and illustrate her evolving views on social conventions and the women around her. This adds depth to the commentary on societal roles and expectations that is prevalent throughout the novel.
Read the excerpt from chapter 34 of The Awakening.
"Fine fellow, that Lebrun," said Arobin when Robert had gone. "I never heard you speak of him."
"I knew him last summer at Grand Isle," she replied.
What becomes apparent during this conversation?
Robert and Arobin are both aware they are rivals for Edna’s affections.
Arobin is unaware of Robert’s role in Edna’s life, but Robert is aware of Arobin’s role.
Robert is completely unaware of Arobin’s romantic intentions and love for Edna.
Robert has much more confidence in himself than Arobin does.
"Fine fellow, that Lebrun," said Arobin when Robert had gone. "I never heard you speak of him."
"I knew him last summer at Grand Isle," she replied.
What becomes apparent during this conversation?
Robert and Arobin are both aware they are rivals for Edna’s affections.
Arobin is unaware of Robert’s role in Edna’s life, but Robert is aware of Arobin’s role.
Robert is completely unaware of Arobin’s romantic intentions and love for Edna.
Robert has much more confidence in himself than Arobin does.
During this conversation, it becomes apparent that Robert and Arobin are both aware they are rivals for Edna’s affections. Arobin's comment about Robert, combined with Edna's reference to their previous acquaintance, indicates that there is a competitive tension between the two men regarding Edna. Both of them have an interest in her, leading to an implicit understanding that they are vying for her attention and affection. This rivalry is a key element in the dynamics of their relationships with Edna throughout the novel.
Read the excerpt from chapter 32 of The Awakening.
When Mr. Pontellier learned of his wife's intention to abandon her home and take up her residence elsewhere, he immediately wrote her a letter of unqualified disapproval and remonstrance. She had given reasons which he was unwilling to acknowledge as adequate. He hoped she had not acted upon her rash impulse; and he begged her to consider first, foremost, and above all else, what people would say.
What does Mr. Pontellier’s letter reveal about his personality?
He is jealous that his wife may be thinking of leaving him for a much younger man.
He hates to be away from his family for such a long period of time and aches to return home.
He is very concerned about maintaining an appearance of financial good standing within his community.
He feels his wife has a good grasp of the situation at home and relies on her to take care of everything.
When Mr. Pontellier learned of his wife's intention to abandon her home and take up her residence elsewhere, he immediately wrote her a letter of unqualified disapproval and remonstrance. She had given reasons which he was unwilling to acknowledge as adequate. He hoped she had not acted upon her rash impulse; and he begged her to consider first, foremost, and above all else, what people would say.
What does Mr. Pontellier’s letter reveal about his personality?
He is jealous that his wife may be thinking of leaving him for a much younger man.
He hates to be away from his family for such a long period of time and aches to return home.
He is very concerned about maintaining an appearance of financial good standing within his community.
He feels his wife has a good grasp of the situation at home and relies on her to take care of everything.
Mr. Pontellier’s letter reveals that he is very concerned about maintaining an appearance of financial good standing within his community. His emphasis on what "people would say" highlights his preoccupation with societal perceptions and the expectations of his social status. This concern reflects his traditional views and prioritizes reputation over emotional connection, illustrating his inability to understand Edna’s desire for independence and fulfillment. It underscores a key theme in the novel regarding the constraints of societal norms on individual identity and personal freedom.
7 answers