Course Hero Logo

The Awakening | Study Guide

Kate Chopin

Get the eBook on Amazon to study offline.

Buy on Amazon Study Guide
Cite This Study Guide

How to Cite This Study Guide

quotation mark graphic
MLA

Bibliography

Course Hero. "The Awakening Study Guide." Course Hero. 7 Feb. 2017. Web. 6 June 2023. <https://www.coursehero.com/lit/The-Awakening/>.

In text

(Course Hero)

APA

Bibliography

Course Hero. (2017, February 7). The Awakening Study Guide. In Course Hero. Retrieved June 6, 2023, from https://www.coursehero.com/lit/The-Awakening/

In text

(Course Hero, 2017)

Chicago

Bibliography

Course Hero. "The Awakening Study Guide." February 7, 2017. Accessed June 6, 2023. https://www.coursehero.com/lit/The-Awakening/.

Footnote

Course Hero, "The Awakening Study Guide," February 7, 2017, accessed June 6, 2023, https://www.coursehero.com/lit/The-Awakening/.

Chapter 27

Course Hero Literature Instructor Russell Jaffe provides an in-depth summary and analysis of Chapter 27 from Kate Chopin's novel The Awakening.

The Awakening | Chapter 27 | Summary

Share
Share

Summary

Edna is in such a good mood about Robert's return that Alcée notices and wonders about the cause of her happiness. She claims it is the promise of nice weather ahead. As the two talk Alcée becomes more affectionate, finally kissing her. To Edna the kiss is a "flaming torch that kindled desire."

Analysis

Since Edna's feelings for Robert cannot find expression or satisfaction in a real romance with him, she directs them at Alcée. She can't stay in control of her emotions so they control her. She is operating on a more instinctive level, where physical and primitive emotional urges dominate. This is the first sexual encounter between Alcée and Edna, although the reader must infer this from the fact that Alcée stays late into the evening.

Cite This Study Guide

information icon Have study documents to share about The Awakening? Upload them to earn free Course Hero access!