Specialite Anglais

Lecture Analytique Bac

Texte no. 1 : The Story of an Hour

I’m presented with a document which is a short story written by Kate Chopin. First of all I will present a short biography about the author. Kate Chopin born on 8 February, 1851 was an American author of short stories and novels. She is considered to have been a forerunner of feminist authors of the 20th century. Her important short stories was “Desiree’s Baby”, “The Story of an Hour” and “The Storm”. She died on 22 August, 1904. Now, after presenting the author, I will talk about the summary of “The Story of an Hour”. This short story is about an hour in the life of the main character, Mrs. Millard. She is afflicted with a heart problem. Bad news has come about that her husband has died in a train accident. Her sister Josephine and Richard who is her husband's friend has to break the horrifying news to her as gently as possible. They both were concerned that the news might somehow put her in great danger with her health. Ironically, Mrs. Millard reacts to the news with excitement. Even though the news is heartbreaking she is finally free from the depressing life she was living. She keeps whispering "Free! Body and soul free!". She is now happy because she doesn't have to live for anyone but herself now. At the end of the story, Mr. Millard opens the door and is surprised by Josephine's cry. Mr. Millard didn't have a faintest idea about the accident. With a quick motion, Richard tried to block Mr. Millard's view of his wife but it was too late. The doctors said she died of a heart disease. The story ends with a short phrase "of joy that kills". Now I will analyse the short story. I will divide the analysis in two parts. The first part will be devoted to………………………and the second part to……………………………

I - ………………………………………..

II - ……………………………………….

Conclusion

As a conclusion, I will say that

Analysis of "The Story of An Hour" Unlike most women who find themselves in denial