The Awakening

During one of the customary communal dinners at Grand Isle, a few residents tell Edna that Robert is about to set off for Mexico, and that he is leaving the same evening. Edna is dismayed: she had seen Robert earlier the same day and he did not say a word about his upcoming departure. The conversations at the dinner table center around Mexico and Mexicans, but Edna is so distressed that she does not participate in any of them. The only comment she makes all evening is asking Robert when exactly he will leave. When Edna is done with the dinner, she hurries back to her guest house, where she acts busy by doing chores and putting her sons to bed. Although Robert’s mother asks Edna to stay with her until her son leaves, Edna refuses to go the Lebrun’s house. Adèle comes to check on Edna and tries to persuade her to join the others. Adèle shares Edna’s impression that Robert’s sudden decision to leave seems unfair and unkind. Unable to convince Edna to go join Mrs. Lebrun, Adèle departs to the main house, where everyone is gathering. After some time, Robert pays a visit to Edna. He bids her farewell and tells her that he might leave forever.