Back to Kate Chopin "Index"

Describe the gradual change in Désirée’s state of mind.

First D. is devoted to Armand. She is convinced of the fact that he loves her the same way she does. In the first part it is a very harmonious relationship, filled with love. But when A. realizes that their baby is coloured he gets very angry and unfair. He blames D. for the skin-colour of their baby and wants her to leave. At that point D. also realizes the black colour of their baby and is shocked. She asks A. for help but the only thing he does is to force her to go away and never come back. D. never thought of having coloured relatives although she doesn’t know anything about her parents because she’s an orphan. For that reason she believes in what A. says and goes away.

by Barbara