edna pontellier

Considered a landmark work of early feminism, The Awakening by Kate Chopin is definitely a must-read. Catherine O’Flaherty or as many know her, Kate Chopin, was born on February 8, 1850. Even at school or at home, Kate grew up being surrounded with intelligent women that had a great effect on her writing. Though it received much public contempt during its release, The Awakening is one of the earliest American novels that focus on women’s issues without condescension. The story revolves around the character of Edna Pontellier and her struggle to reconcile her liberated beliefs with oppressive social structures of her time.