What is a key theme in Kate Chopin's "The Awakening"?

One of the central themes in Kate Chopin's "The Awakening" is the struggles associated with traditional marriage. The protagonist, Edna Pontellier, grapples with the constraints and expectations imposed on her by society and her role as a wife and mother. Throughout the novel, she experiences a growing dissatisfaction with her marriage, which is depicted as stifling and oppressive. Edna's journey of self-discovery leads her to question the norms of her time, ultimately challenging the traditional views of marriage and female identity. This exploration highlights the conflict between societal expectations and personal fulfillment, making the theme of marital struggles a pivotal aspect of the narrative. In contrast, the other options do not capture the essence of Chopin's focus on women's issues and the critique of societal norms regarding marriage.