The Awakening by Kate Chopin

Saving One’s Reputation

Leonce makes many actions to cover up the bumps in his family’s reputation. He is unhappy with Edna’s new, careless way of living and her lack of effort towards important jobs and events that pertain to their reputation. Leonce is furious that he has to create excuses for Edna’s absence during events. Leonce sometimes takes drastic measures to stay respected and keep a positive status. Though he does these actions, some people cannot be fooled and his actions may not be effective enough to cover the imperfections.

Leonce takes care of his family as if they are property, he worries about Edna’s appearances and wants her unharmed so she looks like the perfect wife “‘Your burnt beyond recognition,”he added, looking at his wife as one looks at a valuable piece of personal property which has suffered some damage” he does not want any damage done toward Edna, he wants her to constantly be in perfect health and appearance. He wishes for people to be envious of how good his family is and becomes upset when Edna gets sunburnt. He looks at her as if she is damaged property, like a shiny car with a scratch on it. Since he views her like this, he treats her more like an object than a woman. It is as if she is just another decoration in his house, another addition to hike up his good reputation. “Mr. Pontellier was very fond of walking about his house examining its various appointments and details, to see that nothing was amiss” He does not like any of his decorations to be damaged or misplaced, much like his wife and children. He constantly adds to his collection to make it more elegant. He uses his house as a way to gain more respect for the expenses and a more grand reputation of having a glorious house. “He greatly valued his possessions, chiefly because they were his” He uses his house as another representation of his wealth, and with a great house comes a great family which contributes to his status. He's very well known to the fellow wives on...