Book 26: The Awakening by Kate Chopin
Book 26: The Awakening.
Author: Kate Chopin, 1899. Introduction by Barbara Kingsolver, 2014.
Genre: Classic. Relationship Drama.
Other Details: ebook. 141 pages.
Over one long, languid summer Edna Pontellier, fettered by marriage and motherhood, becomes acquainted with Robert Lebrun. As the days shorten and the temperature drops Edna succumbs to Robert's devotion. But as her desire grows so too does her discontentment - with the role society has forced her to play and with the bonds that hold her fast - and her world begins to unravel with devastating consequences...
The Awakening is widely regarded as one of the forerunners of feminist literature alongside Tolstoy's Anna Karenina and Flaubert's Madame Bovary. First published in the United States in 1899, this radical novel sent shockwaves through American society and continues to speak to readers over a hundred years later. - synopsis from UK publisher's website.
Written over a hundred years ago, this novel has echoes of the novels cited above though notable for being written by a woman. It is easy to see given the subject matter why it was so controversial. Barbara Kingsolver provides an enthusiastic introduction, which also points out those aspects that dates it to the late nineteenth century such as the anonymity of the servants and now unfashionable names.
I found the writing elegant and lyrical. I felt that she brought Louisiana of the period to vivid life. I admit that I have a sort spot for New Orleans and this setting was an added feature for me.
While I enjoyed it and felt that it deserved Barbara Kingsolver's praise it was not well received by the library reading group. The main issue seemed to be that Edna's character was perceived as too self-absorbed, which I also felt but it did not prevent my having empathy for her situation. Still, it generated discussion, which is always a good aspect for any selection no matter how it was received.
Cross-posted to 50bookchallenge.