<p>Kate Chopin&rsquo;s <em>The Awakening</em> (first published in 1899) presents a heartfelt exploration of a woman&rsquo;s emotional and intellectual struggle against the restrictive gender norms of her time. Through the protagonist, Edna Pontellier, Chopin gives voice to a woman awakening to her individuality and questioning the roles imposed upon her. This paper re-examines the novel using contemporary feminist theories and psychoanalytic insights, highlighting the tension between societal expectations and personal freedom. In doing so, it humanizes Edna&#39;s experience, portraying her not just as a symbol of resistance but as a deeply conflicted individual grappling with her identity.</p>