The Awakening characters
by Kate Chopin, 1899
The main characters of The Awakening, who they are and what they do in the story.
Edna Pontellier
protagonistEdna is a 28-year-old wife and mother who undergoes a profound personal transformation. She seeks independence and self-expression, challenging the traditional roles expected of her.
Léonce Pontellier
supportingLéonce is Edna's husband, a successful businessman who values social conventions. He is often perplexed by Edna's behavior and fails to understand her need for autonomy.
Robert Lebrun
supportingRobert is a charming young man who becomes the object of Edna's affection. His flirtations and eventual departure play a crucial role in Edna's awakening.
Adèle Ratignolle
supportingAdèle is Edna's close friend, embodying the ideal 'mother-woman.' Her traditional views on womanhood contrast with Edna's growing independence.
Mademoiselle Reisz
supportingA pianist who represents artistic freedom and independence, Mademoiselle Reisz supports Edna's pursuit of self-discovery and encourages her to embrace her true self.
Alcée Arobin
supportingAlcée is a notorious womanizer who has a brief affair with Edna. He represents a temporary escape from her constrained life.
Doctor Mandelet
supportingThe family physician who suspects Edna's inner turmoil. He offers her understanding and advice, but Edna remains distant.
Madame Lebrun
supportingThe owner of the cottages on Grand Isle, she is Robert's mother and part of the Creole society that surrounds Edna.
Victor Lebrun
supportingRobert's younger brother, who provides comic relief and represents youthful exuberance.
The Farival Twins
supportingTwo young girls who often entertain the guests at Grand Isle, symbolizing innocence and the societal expectations placed on women.
Meet them in the book
Read The Awakening free on the 12-month plan, with a tracker, tap-to-translate vocabulary and a quiz at the end.