Tyson’s Comments (group member since Feb 04, 2022)

Tyson’s comments from the AP Literature and Composition (SHHS) group.

Much like most of the other characters, they all possess a certain air of pretentiousness and indifference towards lives separate from their own. For Edna, it's not just her wealthy upbringing that attributes to her respectability, but her marriage with Leonce is characterized by materialistic ideals that causes her to feel undervalued (Leonce's fixation on the house furniture). Eventually, this causes Edna to want to live in a "tiny" house on her own, believing it will give her the "the feeling of freedom and independence" she desires (Chopin 80). This may be reflected in our modern society by our fixation on material goods and property, while many turn away from these things to seek self-awareness.

Dom wrote: "Ms. Marshall wrote: "Craft a response that addresses two (2) of the following topics:

1. What are the driving conflicts of the novella?
2. Choose a character--how is that character impacting the ..."

I like that you saw Robert's departure as less of a problem, but more of a necessary catalyst for Edna's development towards self-discovery. With Leonce rarely at the house (which is ironic since he is trying to uphold traditions, but in the same manner neglectful of his children and Edna herself) and Robert gone, Edna finds relief in drawing and being alone.

Rebecca wrote: "Robert is a man who is known to be flirtatious towards women through his tender actions. His relationship with Edna abides by these expectations as he spends his days with her, taking care of her l..."

I definitely agree that Robert does indeed evoke some sense of "inspiration" within Edna with such a comical and free attitude. In fact, this bond between them seems to consist even more than simple teases and quips, especially as we progress further and Edna begins to realize her own infatuation after he leaves. I found it strange that despite having such a special connection (or at least that's what it seemed like), Robert does not truly reach out and fails to quell Edna's desperation, leaving much to be desired.

In its portrayal of a path to self-discovery and journey for individuality, I believe that the novel does a great job with representing the struggles and hurdles we must overcome beforehand. Just like how Edna, despite being adamant about staying within the hammock, is soon overcome with an obligation to go back inside: the escape from a rut of normalcy is oftentimes tedious and leaves us guilty. Obviously, big changes rarely happen overnight, but I appreciate the novel’s display of a complex human nature that truly makes the progress to self-improvement genuine and relatable.

While a minor character, Mademoiselle Reisz’s peculiar personality possesses a certain charm. Out of every other character, it seems like she is really the only person who understands Edna’s position in her life, appearing at times to understand it better than Edna herself. Seemingly disinterested in the concerns of others with a selfish disposition, her attitude towards Edna displays a perceptiveness beyond words. In the form of music, Mademoiselle Reisz's piano seems to inspire something Edna that she doesn't even seem to see herself, leaving her emotionally overwhelmed with an unspeakable passion.