Kate Chopin wrote “The Story of an Hour” as a short narrative in 1894. The issue of freedom and the oppressive restrictions on marriage in the late 19th century were powerfully explored. Louise is unable to communicate her genuine emotions and aspirations, so at first, she feels liberated and relieved when her husband passes away. The implication is that Louise felt constrained and oppressed in her marriage and was unable to be authentic and pursue her own goals and interests. The scene where “It was her sister Josephine who told her, in broken sentences; veiled hints that revealed in half concealing” This implies that Josephine is making an effort to be delicate and cautious in how she breaks the news to Louise because she is worried about her precarious emotional state. At first Mrs Mallard feels helpless and distraught. She walks into her room by herself and sobs hysterically, feeling as though her life and her husband’s have come to an end. Yet, Louise discovers a greater sense of freedom and release as she starts to comprehend the news. She believes that she has at last been given the opportunity to be herself and pursue her interests. According to the text, “Some one was opening the front door with a latchkey. It was Brently Mallard who entered, a little travel-stained, composedly carrying his grip-sack and umbrella”. As she begins to enjoy her newfound independence, her spouse unexpectedly makes a fortunate return home. Mrs. Mallard is overcome with surprise and grief at seeing her husband. However, The doctors and coroner’s findings at the end of the story suggest that Mrs. Mallard died of “joy that kills,” possibly from the shock of losing her newfound independence.