18515. THE AWAKENING (KATE CHOPIN). This paper discusses the character Edna Pontellier and her growing awareness of herself as an individualized, sexual being in the patriarchal society of late nineteenth century Louisiana. The paper notes the use of symbolism and the roles of various characters in depicting Edna’s awakening. It is argued that Edna’s failure to attain personal and sexual fulfillment leads to her tragic demise. KEYWORDS: literature Kate Chopin sexuality feminism. MLA Style. 6 pages, 16 footnotes, 1 bibliographic source. 1,569 words.