English 1001—Great American Authors

Discussion Questions for Kate Chopin's The Awakening, chapters XI-XVII.

  1. Why does Edna go to the Chênière with Robert?

  2. What are the differences between the Acadians and the Creoles?

  3. What is the difference between Edna's two selves? (41)

  4. Why does Robert leave for Mexico with such short notice?

  5. How does Edna respond to the news of Robert's imminent departure, and why does she respond this way?

  6. What is the nature of the disagreement between Edna and Mrs. Ratignolle about giving things up for others? (48)

  7. What turns Edna's opinion against Mademoiselle Reisz all of a sudden? (49)


John D. Schwetman
February 13, 2001