The original CliffsNotes study guides offer expert commentary on major themes, plots, characters, literary devices, and historical background. The latest generation of titles in this series also features glossaries and visual elements that complement the classic, familiar format. In CliffsNotes on The Awakening you experience one woman's desire to find and live fully within her true self. Her devotion to that purpose causes friction with her friends and family, and also conflicts with the dominant values of her time. Summaries and commentaries will help you understand events of the novel, as well as their meaning. You'll also gain insight into the life and background of the author, Kate Chopin. Other features that help you study include Character analyses of major players A character map that graphically illustrates the relationships among the characters Critical essays A review section that tests your knowledge A Resource Center full of books, articles, films, and Internet sites Classic literature or modern modern-day treasure -- you'll understand it all with expert information and insight from CliffsNotes study guides.