Based upon thesis statement 3: "Edna is never able to truly gain her independence in The Awakening, she relies on men consistently throughout the novella and they influence her decisions, even in death."
1.) Even while Edna goes about simple tasks and daily routines, her free will is restrained. Edna relies on the men around her as a dog relies on commands from its master.
'Are you going bathing?' asked Robert of Mrs. Pontellier... 'I'm tired; I think not...' 'Oh, come!' he insisted. 'You mustn't miss your bath. Come on. The water must be delicious: it will not hurt you. Come.' He reached up for her big rough straw hat that hung on a peg outside the door, and put it on her head... Edna Pontellier could not have told why, wishing to go to the beach with Robert, she should have in the first place declined, and in the second place have followed in obedience... (Chopin 14-15)
Edna had no intention of bathing on this day and did not wish to attend the beach, and yet she did both of these on the mere whim of Robert Lebrun. Although bathing is a remedial endeavor, Edna still submits her independent decision to stay in, for a man.
2.) As Mrs. Pontellier is bringing an end to her own misunderstood life thoughts of Robert are in her head. Although her decision to die is her own, it is not devoid of male influence.
'Good-by-- because I love you.' He did not know; he did not understand. He would never understand. Perhaps Doctor Mandelet would have understood if she had seen him-- but it was too late; the shore was far behind her, and her strength was gone. (Chopin 137)
Robert Lebrun did not understand that Edna would have done anything to be with him. She would give up the unessential, herself, and even her independence because she will never be able to gain what she believes to be independence. Edna Pontellier will forever be in need of a male counterpart and Robert is the ultimate male counterpart. He is the only one she wants. Because Edna knows she will never be "free" with Robert and will always depend on Mr. Pontellier she decides to die.
