A Pair of Silk Stockings Kate Chopin

Kate Chopin 1851-1904 Witty and popular young woman who became known as an independent Dominant theme = the repression of women in Victorian America i.e. The Awakening

QUICKWRITE Everyone feels trapped with the humdrum activities of everyday life. Even rock stars and athletes wish for an escape from routine. Describe your temporary escape from your everyday responsibilities. If I were to find $100 tomorrow and took the day off from school I would spend the day…

Motivation The reasons for a character’s actions In fiction, a characters motivations are complex and to understand the way they act, their motivations must be believable. Essential Question: Are Mrs. Sommers actions understandable?

Background Setting 1890 Stockings = long and 100% cotton Silk stockings = luxury $15.00 bought a lot more than it can today

Plot Mrs. Sommers unexpectedly finds $15.00 wants to buy clothes for her children Nearly faints Indulges herself

Plot Mrs. Sommers buys: Silk stockings Shoes Gloves Two expensive magazines A fancy meal A theater ticket

Motivation “The vision of her little brood looking fresh and dainty and new for once in their lives excited her and made her restless and wakeful with anticipation.” If this story was in modern times would she still have the same feelings?

Motivation “…nor was she striving to explain to her satisfaction the motive of her action. She was not thinking at all.” Why does Mrs. Sommers act without thinking?

Motivation There were quiet ladies and gentleman, who did not notic her, lunching at the small tables like her own.” How do you think Mrs. Sommers feels about not attracting the other diners attention? Why do you think she feels that way?

Motivation What was the main reason for Mrs. Sommers attending the play at the theater?