ing that of the provider while hers centered on caring for the home. Edna's assurances that Raoul was fine fell on deaf ears and she springs to action to appease her husband. This small interaction sets the tone for their relationship throughout the novel. It establishes that there are underlying power struggles between the two characters and that Mr. Pontellier is the authority in their relationship. Edna experiences her first attempt to distance herself from the dominance of her husband by learning to swim: a non-confrontational step, but one that asserts her desire for independence. "[T]hat night she was like the little tottering, stumbling, clutching child who of a sudden realizes its powers and walks for the first time alone, boldly and with overconfidence." (47) She swims beyond the others who were in her the party. "She turned her face seaward to gather in an impression of space and solitude" (48) She strives for autonomy from the group, for an experience all her own. This sensation overwhelms Edna because she has never previously attempted to separate herself from anyone. Upon looking back toward the shore, she suddenly becomes afraid. "[T]o her unaccustomed vision the stretch of water behind her assumed the aspect of a barrier which her unaided strength would never be able to overcome." (48) This quote not only depicts her real fear of drowning, but also expresses Edna's apprehension at the prospect of becoming truly independent. "I thought I should have perished out there alone," (48) she says to her husband, looking for an acknowledgment of the feat she has accomplished. He dismisses her fears. "You were not so very far, my dear; I was watching you" (48) On the surface this is a comforting gesture, assuring his wife that he will protect her. At the same time, the comfort in that stability is what Edna is fleeing from. She wanted to set herself apart, but Leonce does not recognize her achievement.After returning to New Orleans...
