The Awakening Theme of Society and Class

The Awakening features that age-old conflict between the individual and society. Is it more important to conform or to be yourself? Our protagonist Edna views herself as a super-fabulous individual, but society has a different take on the matter.

1. To what extent is society to blame for Edna’s suicide? Not at all? Totally?
2. What role did Creole society play in Edna’s awakening? Did it play a role?

Edna committed suicide because she realized the impossibility of simultaneously fulfilling herself as an individual and as a member of society.