- Edna: Independent, passionate, and rebellious, seeking self-expression and fulfillment beyond the confines of societal expectations.
- Adele: Conventional, practical, and content with her domestic role, deriving happiness from her family and social responsibilities.
2. Marriage:
- Edna: Suffocated in her marriage to Leonce, feeling trapped and yearning for emotional and intellectual companionship.
- Adele: Happily married to Mr. Ratignolle, finding contentment and purpose in her familial duties.
3. Motherhood:
- Edna: Initially views motherhood as a hindrance to her personal growth but later experiences a maternal affection for her children.
- Adele: Embraces motherhood wholeheartedly, finding fulfillment and joy in nurturing and raising her children.
4. Social Conformity:
- Edna: Struggles to conform to societal expectations of women, feeling constrained and stifled by the limitations imposed on her individuality.
- Adele: Embodies the ideal Victorian woman, adhering to societal norms and expectations without questioning their validity.
5. Emotional Connection:
- Edna: Craves emotional connection and fulfillment, searching for a sense of true love and purpose in life.
- Adele: Finds emotional contentment within the security and familiarity of her marriage and familial relationships.
6. Relationships with Men:
- Edna: Develops a romantic interest in Robert Lebrun and Alcee Arobin, exploring her desires and seeking emotional intimacy beyond her marriage.
- Adele: Remains faithful and dedicated to her husband, Mr. Ratignolle, prioritizing the stability of her marriage and family.
7. Sense of Identity:
- Edna: Grapples with her identity and struggles to define herself beyond her societal roles as wife and mother.
- Adele: Confident in her role and derives a sense of identity from her domestic and social responsibilities.
8. Fate:
- Edna: Ultimately chooses self-discovery and freedom, culminating in her tragic fate as she swims out to sea.
- Adele: Embraces the traditional path and finds happiness and fulfillment within the confines of her societal roles and relationships.