Category: Discussions (Page 2 of 13)

The narrative sheds light on what it was like for Native American students compelled to attend boarding schools run by the government in the late 19th and early 20th century. The courage and tenacity of Native People who struggled to preserve their cultural identity in the face of racial tactics is also highlighted. In the Story Zitkala-experiences Sa’s as a young girl attending a Native American children’s boarding school are described in the article. She explains how her family was separated from her and she was made to go to school where she was not allowed to use her native tongue or engage in her cultural customs. Zitkala-Sa found it difficult to adjust to the demanding regulations and harsh punishments at school. She was required to wear a uniform, cut her hair short, and was frequently reprimanded for using her native language or defying school regulations. She was forced to do things that she did not wanted to do. 

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.