Throughout history, women have been denied equal social rights as men and lacked significant individual freedom. However, as time has progressed, gender stereotypes about females have also progressed in a positive direction. A once-existing gender patriarchy in the world is close to being abolished and the attitudes toward women have been expanded. In literature, writers have expressed their views on women’s equality through characters and textual events. Specific 19th century authors, such as Kate Chopin, use this style of expression to educate readers on the gender norms regarding women that commonly circulate through society. In The Story of an Hour, Chopin uses a combination of word choice and irony Louise Mallard’s change in character to illustrate the woman’s desire to be bold and independent.
Chopin establishes Louise’s new feelings and outlook on her life by utilizing the repetition of certain words. The language of the text creates a creates a continuous emphasis on Chopin’s central message: women’s liberty and independence. When Louise comes to realize her own awakening, Chopin describes, “She [Louise] said it over and over under her breath: ‘free, free, free!’” (Chopin). This line demonstrates the …show more content…
Chopin presented readers with situational irony when Louise finally comes alive upon her husband’s (Brently Mallard) death. “Knowing that Mrs. Mallard was afflicted with heart trouble…” (Chopin). This quote means more than describing a physical ailment, it expresses the emotional endeavor she deals within because of her oppressive lifestyle. Although readers would expect the heart to be the stable core of one’s psyche, in Louise’s case, it proves to be her weakness. Chopin’s literary usage of irony causes Louise to encounter a tragic ending, while simultaneously depicting the privilege of freedom that women yearn
Chopin establishes Louise’s new feelings and outlook on her life by utilizing the repetition of certain words. The language of the text creates a creates a continuous emphasis on Chopin’s central message: women’s liberty and independence. When Louise comes to realize her own awakening, Chopin describes, “She [Louise] said it over and over under her breath: ‘free, free, free!’” (Chopin). This line demonstrates the …show more content…
Chopin presented readers with situational irony when Louise finally comes alive upon her husband’s (Brently Mallard) death. “Knowing that Mrs. Mallard was afflicted with heart trouble…” (Chopin). This quote means more than describing a physical ailment, it expresses the emotional endeavor she deals within because of her oppressive lifestyle. Although readers would expect the heart to be the stable core of one’s psyche, in Louise’s case, it proves to be her weakness. Chopin’s literary usage of irony causes Louise to encounter a tragic ending, while simultaneously depicting the privilege of freedom that women yearn