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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. As Edna walks on the beach, what does she realize about Robert?

2. Who does Mr. Pontellier drop in to visit in town one morning?

3. Alone with Edna, what does Alcee show her?

4. Who arrives at Mademoiselle Reisz's while Edna waits there alone?

5. Why does Madame Ratignolle complain to Edna?

Short Essay Questions

1. Why does Edna feel strong and confident in the pigeon-house?

2. Edna and Mademoiselle Reisz have a spirited discussion when they meet again. Describe the things they say to one another. Is this a pair of women who really like each other?

3. What do you think happens to Edna? Does she die in the ocean? Does she make it back?

4. Edna goes to Mademoiselle Reisz's for refuge, as well as to find out the latest news about Robert. What happens when she is at Mademoiselle Reisz's alone, waiting for the pianist, and Robert shows up out of the blue?

5. Why does Madame Ratignolle urge Edna to think of her children?

6. Edna tells Mademoiselle Reisz that she is going to move out of her house and that she is in love with Robert. Are either of these actions wise?

7. Why does Edna not want to attend her sister's wedding?

8. Why does Edna enjoy horse racing so much?

9. In addition to her move, what occasion is the group celebrating?

10. Why does Edna call her move and dinner party a "coup d'etat"?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Although Mademoiselle Reisz is not a lifelong friend or acquaintance, how does she quickly become close with Edna? Why is she an important person in Edna's life? Why is she a critical character in this entire story?

Essay Topic 2

Is The Awakening a proper title for this novel? If you could name it something else, what would you name it and why?

Essay Topic 3

How would you characterize this novel? Is it a piece of literary romanticism? Realism? Naturalism? Why?

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