The Awakening Essay Activity
For this essay, you have the choice of taking on the Marxist Approach, the New Historicism Approach, or the Psychoanalytical Approach. You may choose any of the three prompts, regardless of the approach you were assigned earlier in this unit. Your typed, MLA format rough draft is due _____________. You can earn extra credit by submitting the paper through CourseSites by 7 pm the day prior to the due date. Remember the traits that a good essay needs to have!
Marxist Approach
Think about Robert’s reason for smoking cigarettes and not cigars (Ch. 2), Leonce Pontellier’s offhand and casual way of handling money (CH. 3), Leonce Pontellier’s attitude toward his house and possessions, the description of the Pontelliers’ lifetstyle, and Edna’s initial rebellion against it (Ch. 17), Leonce and Edna’s discussion of consumerism and saving money (Ch. 18), the description of Mademoiselle Reisz’s apartment and lifestyle (Ch. 21), Edna’s decision to move and the new lifestyle she embraces (Ch. 26-end). You should look at those aspects of Edna’s life and rebellion that are not associated with love or sexual matters. Analyze Edna’s rebellion being against the middle-class (bourgeois) attitudes and expectations.
New Historicism Approach
Defend or refute the position that, with relatively few changes, the main story of The Awakening is as likely today as it was in 1899. Be certain to support your assertions from both the book and your understanding of contemporary society. This might require a little bit of research if you aren’t familiar with society in 1899.
Psychoanalytical Approach
Defend or refute the position that Chopin based her portrayal of Edna Pontellier on her own experiences and desires. This might require a little bit of research if you aren’t familiar with Kate Chopin’s background.