Chopin Thesis Activity

Chopin Thesis Activity

1) Support for Thesis #2
Chopin cleverly portrays new life taking hold as Mrs. Mallard lets go of the expectations placed on her by society. Now that she believes she is widowed Chopin uses images of life fading to usher in new life. The motionless woman, Mrs. Mallard, who grieves over the loss of her husband, sobs herself self into a low and sunken state. In this moment of despair Chopin uses the images of a cloudy sky with glimpses of blue between the clouds. These narrow opening provide a window for new life to come down and embrace her.
2) Support for Thesis #3
The constant ups and downs in the emotions and behavior of Mrs. Mallard portrayed by Chopin through the plot further illustrate the depth of burden such societal pressures can have someone. Chopin shows Mrs. Mallard as initially upset, then calm. Still saddened by the event Chopin illustrates Mrs. Mallard convincing herself that the loss of her husband is going to be ok, and that she can still have a life without him. This up and down pattern continues gradually climbing towards the climax when she finally recognizes her freedom from the marriage that unknowingly burdened her.