Understanding Chopin's The AwakeningBy reading The Awakening, the reader gets an idea of ​​what the life of a Creole woman is like. In reality, however, it is only by reading etiquette books, Chopin's biographical information, and essays on the treatment of women at the time that one can have a deeper understanding of the rules Edna is breaking. A high society beauty, admired for her intelligence and musical talent, Kate wrote in her diary what she really thought: “I dance with people I despise; have fun with men whose only talent is in their feet." She has written advice on how to flirt (keep asking, "What do you think?" and you will be praised everywhere for your intelligence). (116)Kate's sarcasm and wit Chopin can be seen and heard through the character of Edna Pontellier Right from this little excerpt from Chopin's diary we can hear the similarities, Edna seems to move through the Creole social scene in a daze, perhaps because she despised it all. .But when she was alone with her thoughts, she seemed completely aware of what she wanted and what she needed to be happy. I think that although many critics say that The Awakening is not based on the life of Chopin, the author took many aspects of her life to develop the characters. For example, the biographical information says that Chopin's husband is a caring and loving man. Here is a passage that deals with the rules of etiquette that Edna is breaking: Let nothing but the most imperative duty call you on the day of your reception. Your callers are, to some extent, invited guests, and it will be an offensive sign of rudeness to be outside when they call. Nor can you be excused, except in case of illness. (123) The amount of etiquette these women have to learn is astonishing. The articles give the reader a real appreciation for the social faux pas Edna is making. Before reading this, I didn't quite understand how far Edna was departing from the norm. After reading this excerpt, I completely understand why the situation for Leonce is so dire when Edna leaves on the day of the reception. The rules made it seem like women had to be home during the day to have guests; and on other days they needed to go out to visit.