1.Read the bio. Thinking about the time in which Chopin wrote, what kinds of roles did men and women play then? Do you expect to see something about women's restricted freedom in the story?
During the last half of the 19th Century men and women had very distinct roles. Men were the providers for the family, the “Master of the Home“, while women were the subordinates. The woman took care of the home, and the families needs. I would definitely expect to see something about the restricted freedom of women in this story.
2. What is the first hint you have that this woman's marriage was not a happy one?
The first big clue we have that she was unhappy is in the middle of the story when: “She said it over and over under her breath: ‘free, free, free!’”
3. Quote some of the language that reveals she is more happy than sad about her husband's death. Why does she feel this way?
The first quote is from #2, when she repeatedly says “free.” The next quote states, “There would be no powerful will bending hers in the blind persistence with which men and women believe they have a right to impose a private will upon a fellow-creature.” The last main quote says: “Free! Body and soul free!”
4. What happens at the end?