Eveline And The Story Of An Hour Analysis

The short stories “Eveline” by James Joyce and “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin critique marriage from different perspectives. The reality and repercussions of marriage are the main themes of the stories as they explore independence, the institution of marriage, and infactuation. “Eveline” and “The Story of an Hour” critique the institution of marriage by stating that regardless of socioeconomic class, marriage consists of a lack of independence and imposing one’s will at their partner’s expense, which overrides any feelings of love. “The Story of an Hour” begins with Mrs. Mallard hearing of her husbands’ death. Unlike most people, Mrs. Mallard’s grieving process was very short. She experiences a brief mourning period before beginning to ponder what her new life will be like. She sees her husband’s death as an opportunity for a fresh start and for a chance to live a more fulfilling and independent life. “She could see in the open square before her house the tops of trees that were all aquiver with the new spring life.” (Chopin 27) This passage shows that Mrs. Mallard is feeling more independent without her husband, and is anticipating a brighter future. …show more content…
“In her home anyway she had shelter and food; she had those whom she had known all her life about her.” This quote explains her anticipation of a change in social class, and her fear of leaving her comfortable lifestyle behind. Eveline’s fiancé, Frank, was a sailor, and of a higher socioeconomic class then her and her family. If she left for Buenos Ayres with him, she would benefit from his wealth, but be subject to the institution of marriage. Eveline was indecisive. She could not decide between a life of being trapped in the institution of marriage, or a life supporting her family. Both options left her with little