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"The mother-woman seemed to prevail that summer at Grand Isle. It was easy to know them, fluttering about with extended, protecting wings when any harm, real or imaginary, threatened their precious brood. They were women who idolized their children, worshiped their husbands, and esteemed it a holy privilege to efface themselves as individuals and grow wings as ministering angels." (21).
How is Edna different from Adele?
How is Edna similar to Mademoiselle Reisz?
Mlle. Reisz is unique from other Victorian women. She lives through her art and her passions, rather than being strictly devoted to a family. Reisz is a talented pianist and entertains many at Grand Isle, but only enjoys playing for Mrs. Pontellier. She does not live up to societies expectations of her and is radical in that sense. Mlle. Reisz is an independent woman who has the most freedom out of the women in The Awakening.
Adele influences Edna by helping her to unveil the romantic passion she used to feel years ago. Edna is able to remember her need for sexual satisfaction and lives it through her affairs. Adele's absolute devotion to her family reminds Edna how she despises a Victorian woman's social role and longs for autonomy. Mademoiselle Reisz influences Edna by embracing her own artistic values and helps Edna to understand her true identity. Mlle. Reisz' life represents the way Edna could have lived if she had continued her awakening. Edna grew as an individual during her relationship with Mademoiselle Reisz.
"There was nothing which so quieted the turmoil of Edna's senses as a visit to Mademoiselle Reisz. It was then, in the presence of that personality which was offensive to her, that the woman, by her divine art, seemed to reach Edna's spirit and set it free." (109).
Adele is a foil character to Mademoiselle Reisz. She is devoted to her children and her husband. She represents most women during the Victorian era who were viewed as property of their husbands. Adele is comfortable speaking about her pregnancy, sex and other intimate aspects of being a woman. Madame Ratignolle is the perfect example of a mother-woman. Her days consist of caring for her children, pleasing her husband, cooking, cleaning, and maintaining the house.
The Awakening: Characterization of Mademoiselle Reisz, Madame Ratignolle, and Edna Pontellier