“The boys were tumbling about, clinging to his legs, imploring thatnumerous things be brought back to them. Mr. Pontellier was a greatfavorite, and ladies, men, children, even nurses, were always on hand tosay goodby to him. His wife stood smiling and waving, the boys shouting,as he disappeared in the old rockaway down the sandy road.A few days later a box arrived for Mrs. Pontellier from New Orleans. Itwas from her husband. It was filled with friandises, with lusciousand toothsome bits--the finest of fruits, pates, a rare bottle or two,delicious syrups, and bonbons in abundance.Mrs. Pontellier was always very generous with the contents of such abox; she was quite used to receiving them when away from home. Thepates and fruit were brought to the dining-room; the bonbons were passedaround. And the ladies, selecting with dainty and discriminating fingersand a little greedily, all declared that Mr. Pontellier was the besthusband in the world. Mrs. Pontellier was forced to admit that she knewof none better.”
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Quote Analysis:
In this passage from Kate Chopin's novel, "The Awakening," we see a moment of affection and adoration towards Mr. Pontellier from his family and friends. The scene depicts a farewell moment where Mr. Pontellier is leaving, and everyone, especially the children, are begging for him to bring back various things. This shows the love and bond between Mr. Pontellier and those around him. The arrival of a box filled with goodies from New Orleans further highlights Mr. Pontellier's thoughtfulness and generosity towards his wife, earning him the title of the best husband in the world among her friends. This passage not only reveals Mr. Pontellier's character but also sheds light on the expectations and societal norms of the time regarding marriage and spousal relationships.
Modern Relevance
In this excerpt from Kate Chopin's novel, "The Awakening," we see a reflection of societal expectations placed on women in the 19th century. Mrs. Pontellier's value as a wife is tied to her husband's ability to provide her with material gifts and luxuries. This serves as a reminder of the progress that has been made in challenging traditional gender roles and the importance of valuing women for more than just their roles as wives and mothers.
Example of Usage
In this excerpt from Kate Chopin's "The Awakening," the Pontellier family is portrayed as close-knit and affectionate. Despite Mr. Pontellier's departure, he remains a beloved figure, especially among the children. When he sends a box of treats to his wife, the gesture is met with excitement and admiration, further solidifying his reputation as a devoted husband.
Reflection Questions:
In this passage from Kate Chopin's novel, The Awakening, we see the relationship between Mr. and Mrs. Pontellier unfold through a simple gesture of sending a box of goodies. Reflect on the dynamics of their marriage and the expectations placed on husbands and wives during the time period in which the story is set. Consider the significance of material gestures of affection in relationships and how they may or may not reflect the true nature of a partnership.
Similar quotes
“It sometimes entered Mr. Pontellier's mind to wonder if his wife were not growing a little unbalanced mentally. He could see plainly that she was not herself. That is, he could not see that she was becoming herself and daily casting aside that fictitious self which we assume like a garment with which to appear before the world.”
“You have been a very foolish boy, wasting your time dreaming of impossible things when you speak of Mr. Pontellier setting me free! I am no longer one of Mr. Pontelliere's possessions to dispose of or not. I give myself where I choose. If he were to say, 'Here Robert, take her and be happy; she is yours,' I should laugh at you both.”
“In short, Mrs. Pontellier was beginning to realize her position in the universe as a human being, and to recongize her relations as an individual to the world within and about her. This may seem like a ponderous weight of wisdom to descend upon the soul of a young woman of twenty-eight - perhaps more wisdom than the Holy Ghost is usually pleased to vouchsafe to any woman.”
“You are burnt beyond recognition," he added, looking at his wife as one looks at a valuable piece of personal property which has suffered some damage. She held up her hands, strong, shapely hands, and surveyed them critically, drawing up her fawn sleeves above the wrists. Looking at them reminded her of her rings, which she had given to her husband before leaving for the beach. She silently reached out to him, and he, understanding, took the rings from his vest pocket and dropped them into her open palm. She slipped them upon her fingers; then clasping her knees, she looked across at Robert and began to laugh. The rings sparkled upon her fingers. He sent back an answering smile.”
“Edna looked straight before her with a self-absorbed expression upon her face. She felt no interest in anything about her. The street, the children, the fruit vender, the flowers growing there under her eyes, were all part and parcel of an alien world which had suddenly become antagonistic.”
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