te her life to a role that she does not fashion, define, or fulfill. Demanding respect and accepting responsibility for herself, she rebels against a woman's living vicariously through the lives of her husband and children, as the women of the Grand Isle have chosen to do. Upon her return from Grand Isle, Edna is determined to complete her awakening in New Orleans. The setting of the novel changes to the faster-paced city life, and the more desperate mood of the novel reflects this abrupt change as well. It is clearly evident that Edna is no longer interested in her past routine of social gatherings and dinners to keep up appearances. As Edna's character development continues, she finds herself at odds with her husband, and becomes increasingly distressed by her oppressive marriage. In an attempt to challenge her husband's authority, Edna refuses to attend a Tuesday social gathering at her home. The reason for her intentional absence can be attributed to Edna's sudden disdain for her wifely duties, viewing them as a representation of her husband's values. Eventually Edna relocates to another residence that she rents while Leonce is in New York "without even waiting for an answer from her husband regarding his opinion or wishes in the matter" (141). This action completes Edna's breaking away from her marriage.The urban environment of New Orleans provides Edna with other relationships which reinforce her break with her restrictive home life. She associates more frequently with Mademoiselle Reisz and Alcee Arobin who are on the fringe of Creole society and are portrayed as outcasts. Edna respects Mademoiselle Reisz who is unmarried and free from marital and social responsibility. The two develop an understanding that enables Edna to understand her true emotions for Robert. Reisz is an attentive listener who does not judge Edna as others would do. This relationship represents progress for Edna, who becomes more confident in her new ...
