Reaction to The Character of Mrs Mallard

Throughout the short story "The Story of an Hour" by Kate Chopin, the character of Mrs Mallard undergoes a profound emotional journey. The story explores the theme of freedom and the constraints of marriage in the late 19th century. Mrs Mallard's reaction to the news of her husband's death is a complex mixture of conflicting emotions. This essay will analyze how Mrs Mallard initially feels about her husband, the evolution of her emotions upon learning of his death, and the implications of her newfound freedom.

Initial Feelings Towards Her Husband

At the beginning of the story, Mrs Mallard is portrayed as a submissive wife who is trapped in an oppressive marriage. The text mentions that she "did not hear the story as many women have heard the same, with a paralyzed inability to accept its significance". This suggests that she is not as devastated by her husband's death as one might expect. In fact, she seems to have an ambivalent attitude towards her husband, which hints at her desire for independence and freedom.

Throughout the story, the author subtly hints at Mrs Mallard's true feelings about her husband. For example, when she hears the news of his death, she doesn't react with immediate grief, but rather with shock and disbelief. This indicates that her feelings towards him were not as strong as societal expectations would dictate. Furthermore, the text mentions that "she knew that she would weep again when she saw the kind, tender hands folded in death". This suggests that her feelings towards her husband were more complicated than a simple display of grief.

Evolution of Emotions

As Mrs Mallard processes the news of her husband's death, her emotions undergo a dramatic transformation. Initially, she retreats to her room and shuts herself off from the world. This solitude allows her to reflect on her own existence and contemplate the possibilities of a life without her husband. She experiences a sense of liberation and joy, which is contrary to the expected response of a grieving widow.

Chopin's use of language and imagery in describing Mrs Mallard's emotions is particularly powerful. For example, the text mentions that "a monstrous joy rose within her". This phrase suggests that her emotions are so intense and overwhelming that they can only be described as monstrous. It highlights the conflict between societal expectations and her true desires.

Furthermore, as Mrs Mallard looks out of her window, she sees the new life that awaits her. The text states that "there were patches of blue sky showing here and there through the clouds that had met and piled one above the other in the west facing her window". This imagery symbolizes the hope and possibility that she sees in her future. It represents the freedom she longs for and the restrictions that she is now released from.

Implications of Freedom

Mrs Mallard's newfound freedom has significant implications for her character and the broader themes of the story. As she embraces her independence, she realizes that her marriage was stifling and limiting. The text states that "she breathed a quick prayer that life might be long. It was only yesterday she had thought with a shudder that life might be long". This juxtaposition highlights her changed perspective and her excitement for the future.

The author also explores the theme of female identity in the late 19th century. Mrs Mallard's reaction to her husband's death challenges the traditional role of women as subservient and dependent on their husbands. She recognizes that she is now free to live life on her own terms, without the constraints of marriage. This theme of female empowerment is further emphasized by the conclusion of the story, where Mrs Mallard's freedom is abruptly taken away from her.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mrs Mallard's reaction to the news of her husband's death is a complex blend of conflicting emotions. She initially feels ambivalent towards her husband, which hints at her desire for independence. As she processes the news, her emotions evolve and she experiences a profound sense of liberation and joy. This newfound freedom has significant implications for her character and the broader themes of the story. Mrs Mallard's journey highlights the constraints of marriage in the late 19th century and challenges traditional gender roles. Ultimately, her freedom is tragically taken away, leaving the reader to contemplate the limitations imposed on women during this time period.