Kate Chopin's, The Awakening develops the theme of how society and culture often pressure women to fit a certain image or fill a specific role. The protagonist, Edna Pontellier acknowledges her sexual and emotional desires and discovery of her own identity.
However,
Victorian women were often expected to perform household chores and look for the betterment of the family. Also, they were not permitted to seek their own needs and desires. The law's limitation gave them very few opportunities for self-expression.
When for the first time Edna swims, she discovers her strength and through painting her 'pleasure of self-creation'. Her life was constrained by her husband whenever she tried to vocalize herself.
Lastly, Robert's passion for Edna was not enough to bring them together. He was torn between his morality and his sense of love. The note that he leaves for Edna is a realization to Edna that she is alone in her awakening because Robert refuses to cross the boundaries of social convention.
