The ending of "The Story of an Hour" delivers a profound emotional twist by revealing that Louise Mallard's newfound sense of freedom and joy is abruptly shattered by the return of her husband, leading to her death from "the joy that kills." This choice underscores the story's exploration of the oppressive nature of marriage and the fleeting nature of hope, leaving readers with a haunting reflection on the complexities of autonomy and societal expectations.
The Story of an Hour
by Kate Chopin
Her fancy was running riot along those days ahead of her. Spring days, and summer days, and all sorts of days that would be her own. She breathed a quick prayer that life might be long. It was only yesterday she had thought with a shudder that life might be long.
She arose at length and opened the door to her sister’s importunities. There was a feverish triumph in her eyes, and she carried herself unwittingly like a goddess of Victory. She clasped her sister’s waist, and together they descended the stairs. Richards stood waiting for them at the bottom.
Some one was opening the front door with a latchkey. It was Brently Mallard who entered, a little travel-stained, composedly carrying his grip-sack and umbrella. He had been far from the scene of accident, and did not even know there had been one. He stood amazed at Josephine’s piercing cry; at Richards’ quick motion to screen him from the view of his wife.
But Richards was too late.
When the doctors came they said she had died of heart disease—of joy that kills.
"The Story of an Hour" by Kate Chopin
Question
Use the passage to answer the question.
In 1–2 sentences, analyze how the author’s choice of an ending contributes to the story’s aesthetic impact.
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