Although there is probably no justification for the suicide, in the novel The Awakening by Kate Chopin, it is Edna's act of freedom. The time period in which it happens and the events leading up to it just give a clear explanation that all he wants is freedom. Edna may be considered selfish in this situation, but with the circumstances she was in and the thought process she analyzed thoroughly, it is very clear that Edna's rebellion towards her life in society was not selfish at all, however accomplished in an act of freedom. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay In the society in which Edna lives, she is constantly searching for freedom. She feels like being independent is not an option, especially in a society that doesn't accept women. Edna seeks freedom wherever she can get it because no one understands her: “She didn't know; he didn't understand” (116). Robert was the “he” in his pre-suicide self-talk. Robert in a way helps her achieve her independence, but he never understands her like everyone else in her family. While she kills herself she feels that she is fleeing from the world that does not understand or accept her and therefore she gains freedom. Edna ultimately decides that suicide is the only way out of her horrible life and finds her freedom. She thinks clearly about every possible impact her death can have on a person and is very careful about how she kills herself, so she doesn't act selfishly because she took time to think about everyone, “She thought about Leonce and the children. They were part of his life. But it was not necessary for them to think that they could possess her, body and soul” (116). Edna would have no satisfaction returning to her children and Leonce because she would feel as if she were limiting her freedom by choice. His entire thought process involves making his suicide look like an accident so that no one in the family experiences feelings of guilt. Her suicide selflessly allows her freedom due to his carefully planned attack setting her free. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Edna continually tries throughout her life to stand up for what she believes in and be true to herself and everyone in her life, but no one understands. He feels there is no hope for freedom and is so sad that there is nothing else to do. Her community continues to undermine her right to be herself and have freedom. Edna finds freedom in the sea: «The voice of the sea is seductive, it never ceases, it whispers, shouts, murmurs, it invites the soul to wander into the abyss of solitude».(115), for Edna solitude was her suicide..