Saturday, February 20, 2016
Mr. Pontellier
It's hard to imagine Edna tolerating a man such as Mr. Pontellier as a friend, let alone a husband. He fancies himself an exuberant lifestyle, and is very materialistic. Mr. Pontellier's interest in reputation and riches is exemplified when Chopin describes the Pontellier residence in New Orleans, "It was a large, double cottage, with a broad front veranda...The house was painted a dazzling white; the outside shutters, or jalousies, were green. In the yard, which was kept scrupulously neat, were flowers and plants of every description...The softest carpets and rugs covered the floor; rich and tasteful draperies hung at doors and windows. There were paintings, selected with judgement and discrimination, upon the walls. The cut glass, the silver, the heavy damask which daily appeared upon the table were the envy of many women whose husbands were less generous than Mr. Pontellier." (Chopin 66) His house is his property and an extension of his wealth and character; therefore, he adorns it with the most costly garb. This could explain why he pays closer attention to his children than Edna, they're an extension of his legacy.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
You are absolutely correct about his children being more important than his wife. Although, the manner in which his wife acts could also be quite reflective of Mr. Pi teller himself. I think Mr. Pontellier should worry about Edna equal as much because she is an extension of him.
ReplyDeleteI agree. He is way too materialistic and he worries too much about what others would say. An example of this was when Edna wanted to move to a new house. He only disapproved because he believed it would hurt his reputation.
ReplyDelete