The Awakening and Selected Short Stories

Set in late 19th-century New Orleans, this landmark novel explores Edna Pontellier's internal conflict as she grapples with her identity amid the restrictive norms of femininity and motherhood. Recognized as an early work of feminism, it also serves as a precursor to American modernism and influences notable Southern writers. Through Edna's journey, the narrative challenges societal expectations and highlights the complexities of self-discovery in a changing world.