Analysis
Here is a brief analysis of the main elements found in Kate Chopin’s “The Story of an Hour”.
The short story is structured around the thoughts of Louise Mallard, following the news of her husband’s death. The story ends with a plot twist, as Louise's husband turns out to be alive.
The main character is Louise Mallard. Characters such as Josephine, Richards, and Brently Mallard also play a role in the story. Josephine and Richards are mainly defined by their concern for Louise, but it is also clear that neither of them fully understand the relationship between Louise and her husband.
The story takes place in Louise Mallard’s house, over the course of an hour. The social setting explores gender roles and marriage relations in the 19th century.
The events are presented by a third-person narrator, who follows Louise Mallard’s thoughts upon hearing the news of her husband’s death. The narrator is not completely limited to Louise's point of view, however, and switches perspective after she dies.
The language used by Chopin is formal and poetic, echoing the style of the 19th century, when the story was written. There is little dialogue, as the focus is on Louise Mallard’s thoughts and feelings.
A full analysis of the short story can be found in the following pages.