The symbolism of the heart diseases and Louise's strive for identity in a man-dominated world. The 'Story of an Hour' by Kate Chopin

Seminar paper from the year 2021 in the subject American Studies - Literature, grade: 2,3, University of Tubingen, language: English, abstract: The topic of the feminine desire for identity in a male dominated environment is represented in Kate Chopin's 'The Story of an Hour,' that employs the symbol of the heart disease, which illustrates the independence and opportunities, that await her after an unfulfilled marriage. The narrator of the short tale 'The Story of an Hour' describes Louise Mallard, a woman whose husband, Brently Mallard, was allegedly killed in a train accident in the 1890s. The short story depicts the force of extreme male dominance over women in marriage, which was widespread at the time, leaving women yearning for any release from oppression. Mrs. Mallard is secretly pleased for the new opportunity to discover her own identity and cherishes her newfound freedom much more than she loves her husband, as it can be seen from her behaviour. Mrs. Mallard understands she should be grieving her husband's death and fearing what the future holds, but she cannot help but be overjoyed with the amount of freedom she has now.