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116 The Story of an Hour Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

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The Story of an Hour by Kate Chopin is a short but powerful story that explores the complexities of marriage, freedom, and self-discovery. With its rich themes and thought-provoking narrative, this classic piece of literature has inspired countless essays and discussions. If you're looking for essay topic ideas and examples for The Story of an Hour, you've come to the right place. Here are 116 essay topics to help you get started:

• Analyze the character of Mrs. Mallard and how she evolves throughout the story.
• Explore the theme of freedom in The Story of an Hour.
• Discuss the role of marriage in the story and how it impacts the characters.
• Compare and contrast Mrs. Mallard's emotions before and after learning of her husband's death.
• Examine the use of irony in the story and how it contributes to the overall theme.
• Discuss the significance of the title "The Story of an Hour" and how it relates to the plot.
• Analyze the symbolism of the open window in the story.
• Explore the theme of female independence in The Story of an Hour.
• Discuss the role of societal expectations in the story and how they influence the characters' actions.
• Compare and contrast Mrs. Mallard's reaction to her husband's death with that of other characters in the story.
• Analyze the significance of the setting in The Story of an Hour.
• Discuss the theme of repression in the story and how it affects the characters' relationships.
• Explore the theme of mortality in The Story of an Hour.
• Discuss the role of gender in the story and how it shapes the characters' experiences.
• Analyze the use of foreshadowing in The Story of an Hour.
• Discuss the theme of self-discovery in the story and how it impacts the characters' development.
• Compare and contrast Mrs. Mallard's reaction to her husband's death with that of society's expectations.
• Analyze the symbolism of the heart trouble in the story.
• Discuss the theme of isolation in The Story of an Hour.
• Explore the theme of rebirth in the story and how it relates to Mrs. Mallard's journey.
• Analyze the role of communication in the story and how it affects the characters' relationships.
• Discuss the theme of empowerment in The Story of an Hour.
• Compare and contrast Mrs. Mallard's reaction to her husband's death with that of her sister's.
• Analyze the role of denial in the story and how it influences the characters' actions.
• Discuss the theme of time in The Story of an Hour.
• Explore the theme of grief in the story and how it impacts the characters' emotions.
• Analyze the symbolism of the railroad in the story.
• Discuss the theme of liberation in The Story of an Hour.
• Compare and contrast Mrs. Mallard's reaction to her husband's death with that of her friend's.
• Analyze the role of symbolism in the story and how it enhances the narrative.
• Discuss the theme of identity in The Story of an Hour.
• Explore the theme of fate in the story and how it influences the characters' choices.
• Analyze the symbolism of the staircase in the story.
• Discuss the theme of transformation in The Story of an Hour.
• Compare and contrast Mrs. Mallard's reaction to her husband's death with that of her mother's.
• Analyze the role of foils in the story and how they contribute to the characters' development.
• Discuss the theme of betrayal in The Story of an Hour.
• Explore the theme of forgiveness in the story and how it impacts the characters' relationships.
• Analyze the symbolism of the storm in the story.
• Discuss the theme of redemption in The Story of an Hour.
• Compare and contrast Mrs. Mallard's reaction to her husband's death with that of her father's.
• Analyze the role of irony in the story and how it enhances the narrative.
• Discuss the theme of sacrifice in The Story of an Hour.
• Explore the theme of perspective in the story and how it influences the characters' perceptions.
• Analyze the symbolism of the caged bird in the story.
• Discuss the theme of acceptance in The Story of an Hour.
• Compare and contrast Mrs. Mallard's reaction to her husband's death with that of her neighbors'.
• Explore the theme of choice in the story and how it impacts the characters' decisions.
• Analyze the symbolism of the garden in the story.
• Compare and contrast Mrs. Mallard's reaction to her husband's death with that of her colleagues'.
• Analyze the role of foreshadowing in the story and how it contributes to the overall theme.
• Explore the theme of self-discovery in the story and how it impacts the characters' development.
• Analyze the symbolism of the mirror in the story.
• Compare and contrast Mrs. Mallard's reaction to her husband's death with that of her classmates'.
• Discuss the theme of mortality in The Story of an Hour.
• Discuss the theme of female independence in The Story of an Hour.
• Explore the theme of repression in the story and how it affects the characters' relationships.
• Discuss the theme of freedom in The Story of an Hour.
• Explore the role of marriage in the story and how it impacts the characters.
• Analyze the use of irony in the story and how it contributes to the overall theme.
• Discuss the significance of the setting in The Story of an Hour.
• Analyze the role of marriage in the story and how it impacts the characters.
• Analyze the significance of the title "The Story of an Hour" and how it relates to the plot.
• Compare and contrast Mrs. Mallard's reaction to

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131 The Story of an Hour Essay Topics

“The Story of an Hour” is an 1894 short story by Kate Chopin. Its protagonist, a frail young woman Louise Mallard, hears the news of her husband’s death. She retreats to her room to mourn him. Yet, the more she thinks about her situation, she realizes she is happy with her newfound freedom. Mrs. Mallard leaves her room, hopeful and content, when the front door suddenly opens. It’s her husband, still alive. The story ends with Louise dying of a heart attack.

When looking for a “The Story of an Hour” essay title , there are many ideas that you can consider. You can conduct a literary analysis, discuss the prominent characters, or explore the central themes. Below, our experts have listed 100+ “The Story of an Hour” essay topics. We have also offered some advice on writing a thesis statement for your paper.

• 🔝 Top 13 Essay Questions
• 📋 General Topics for the Essay
• 👩 Essay Prompts: Characters
• 📖 Literary Analysis Topics
• ✍️ The Story of an Hour: Thesis Statement

🔗 References

🔝 top 13 the story of an hour essay questions.

• How does Chopin use irony in the story?
• Why did Louise Mallard have to die?
• How Does “The Story of an Hour” Reflects Women’s Situation in the 19th Century America?
• Is “The Story of an Hour” a feminist story?
• Is Louise Mallard a selfish character?
• What is the significance of freedom in “The Story of an Hour?”
• Could the story have ended differently?
• What is the role of gender in “The Story of an Hour?”
• What Is the Central Idea of Kate Chopin’s “The Story of an Hour?”
• Is the story a reflection of the suffrage movement?
• How does Chopin use the imagery in “The Story of an Hour?”
• What does Chopin’s short story tell us about 19th-century society?
• What’s the Reason of Louise Mallard’s Death in “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin?

📋 General Topics for The Story of an Hour Essay

• The symbolism of the title “The Story of an Hour” by Chopin.
• The struggles of Louise Mallard in “The Story of an Hour.”
• The two opposing phenomena of grief and happiness in “The Story of an Hour.”
• The ideals of the 19th century in “The Story of an Hour.”
• The suffocating power of marriage in the life of Louise Mallard.
• The yearning for independence in “The Story of an Hour.”
• The symbolic malady of Louise Mallard in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Death from joy or sorrow in “The Story of an Hour.”
• The Literary Techniques Used in Kate Chopin’s “The Story of an Hour.”
• Comparison of femininity in Little Women and “The Story of an Hour.”
• Women’s oppression in The Handmaid’s Tale and “The Story of an Hour.”
• The position of women in the 19th century in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Women’s voice in Emily Dickinson’s poetry and Chopin’s “The Story of an Hour.”
• The role of nature in the perception of “The Story of an Hour.”
• The motif of crying in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Reaction to death in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Richards and Josephine as important heroes in “The Story of an Hour.”
• The author’s idea in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Relationships in “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin.
• Different perspectives of marriage in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Louise Mallard as a representation of women in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Can the story of Mrs. Mallard apply to today’s world?
• The internal conflict in Chopin’s heroine, Louise Mallard.
• The emotional and moral conflicts of Louise Mallard.
• Freedom in Kate Chopin’s “The Story of an Hour.”
• Did Louise Mallard deserve to die in Chopin’s story?
• What is the core idea of “The Story of an Hour?”
• Why is the ending of “The Story of an Hour” necessary to understand the idea?
• Should “The Story of an Hour” be considered a feminist work?
• Was Louise Mallard happy in her marriage?
• The victim positions in “The Story of an Hour” and “The Bloody Chamber.”
• The freedom pondering in Chopin’s The Awakening and “The Story of an Hour.”
• Chopin’s feminist techniques in “The Story of an Hour.”
• The essential lesson in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Are there ironic parts in “The Story of an Hour?”
• Is Louise Mallard a dynamic or static heroine?
• Why is heart disease significant in “The Story of an Hour?”
• Where is Chopin’s “The Story of an Hour” set?
• What literary devices are used in “The Story of an Hour?”
• What is the symbolism of the window in “The Story of an Hour?”
• Does Louise Mallard win or lose in the end?
• Did Louise Mallard experience the joy that kills?
• What is the relationship between Louise Mallard and her husband?
• What was the main news in “The Story of an Hour?”
• What were the emotions of Louise Mallard?
• What is Chopin’s writing style in “The Story of an Hour?”
• Is Louise Mallard a good or bad person because of her reaction?
• The patriarchy illustration in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Irony in “Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin.
• The role of a woman in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Chopin’s portrayal of internal and external female struggle.
• Comparative analysis of Jo March and Louise Mallard.
• Dependence on men in “The Story of an Hour.”
• The strength and the weakness of Louise Mallard.
• Analysis of women’s purpose in society: Jo March and Louise Mallard.
• The opposing characters of Jo March and Louise Mallard.
• “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin as a Commentary on the Unfair Treatment of Women in the 19th-century America.

👩 The Story of an Hour Essay Prompts: Characters

• How does Louise Mallard’s character change throughout “The Story of an Hour?”
• Compare and contrast Louise’s and Brently’s characters in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Impact of Louise’s social status on her emotional response to her husband’s death.
• Comparison of Louise Mallard’s personality to other characters in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Gender’s role in relationships and characters in “The Story of an Hour.”
• The perception of Louise by other characters.
• “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin and “The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins: Women Characters Comparison.
• Compare and contrast the characters of Louise and Josephine in “The Story of an Hour.”
• The evolution of Louise’s self-perception and relationship with her husband in the story.
• The manifestation of freedom theme in Louise Mallard’s character in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Character reactions to Louise Mallard’s husband’s reported death in “The Story of an Hour.”
• How do “The Story of an Hour” characters express their emotions?
• The evolution of character relationships in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Louise Mallard in “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin.
• The reflection of societal expectations and roles in “The Story of an Hour” characters.
• The demonstration of agency by characters in “The Story of an Hour” amid tragedy.
• The character coping with and confronting loss in “The Story of an Hour.”
• The portrayal of freedom and independence theme by characters in “The Story of an Hour.”
• The representation of marital relationships theme by characters in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Revealing identity and self-discovery theme by characters in “The Story of an Hour.”
• The Story of an Hour: Emotions and Psychology of Women.
• The characters’ illustration of the human experience theme in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Analyze the relationship between Louise Mallard and her husband, Brently Mallard.
• Describe the transformation of Louise Mallard’s emotions throughout the story.
• Discuss the theme of freedom in “The Story of an Hour” and its implications.

📖 The Story of an Hour Essay Titles: Literary Analysis

• Does Chopin personify nature in the story?
• How did Chopin connect the condition of the heart and home?
• How does Chopin demonstrate sexism in “The Story of an Hour?”
• Comparison of “The Yellow Wallpaper” and “The Story of an Hour”.
• How does The Story of an Hour develop its narrative?
• Is Chopin’s opinion embedded in Mrs. Mallard’s words?
• Is Louise’s death a euphemism for the flowering of feminism?
• Is there personification in “The Story of an Hour?”
• Phraseology in “The Story of an Hour.”
• The dichotomy in “The Story of an Hour.”
• Setting in “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin.
• The equality of marriage through the prism of Chopin’s language.
• The role of epithets with open syllables in “The Story of an Hour.”
• The role of metaphor in “The Story of an Hour.”
• The role of the word “freedom” in “The Story of an Hour.”
• What archetypes does Chopin use in Louise’s self-development?
• What does Chopin use to connect deaths in the story?
• What does Chopin use to fuel interest in Louise’s death?
• What elements of “The Story of an Hour” point to Chopin’s opinion?
• What genre best characterizes Chopin’s story?
• What indicates Chopin’s dissatisfaction with women’s dependence on men?
• What indicates that “The Story of an Hour” is feminist?
• What is Chopin’s “a very elixir of life?”
• What is the importance of the “hour” in Chopin’s story?
• “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin: Plot Analysis.
• What is the situational irony in Chopin’s story?
• What is the symbolism of Louise’s heart condition?
• What language tools does Chopin use to demonstrate Louise’s growth?
• What stylistic devices does Chopin use to demonstrate Louise’s confrontation?
• What techniques does Chopin use to control the reader’s mood?
• What values does Chopin present in the text?
• The Story of an Hour by Kate Chopin: Analysis.
• Which literary devices indicate the connection between Louise and nature?
• Why did Chopin use irony instead the direct narration?
• Why does Chopin use short dialogues in the story?
• Why is “The Story of an Hour” about women?

✍️ How to Write The Story of an Hour Thesis Statement

A strong thesis statement is one of the most critical facets of a successful literary essay. It should provoke your readers to reflect on your topic. Or it can provide a different perspective on a well-thought-out issue.

These are the key three things to take into account when writing a thesis statement :

• Consider the What and the Why. The first question refers to the claim you will be making about the story. What is it that you want to tell your audience? What aspect of the short story do you wish to explore? The second part, or “the why,” should explain the significance of your topic. Why is it important? Why should your readers care about it?
• Announce your main argument. It is the statement that you will have to prove in your paper. It will also guide your audience through your analysis, explaining what to expect. Remember that your thesis must be specific and relate only to what you will discuss. If you need help formulating it, use our online paraphraser tool .
• Take a strong stance. Your main argument cannot be an observed fact or a subjective opinion. Instead, it should be an assertion. Provide your interpretation of “The Story of an Hour” or some of its aspects. Later, in the body paragraphs, you will defend it.

Thank you for reading our article! We hope you have found an ideal topic for your “The Story of an Hour” essay. If you need to create a quick summary of this text, we have the perfect tool to assist you.

• The Story of an Hour (full text) – Kate Chopin
• Analysis of ‘The Story of an Hour’ by Kate Chopin – Catherine Sustana, ThoughtCo
• Developing a Thesis — Purdue Online Writing Lab
• Literary Criticism: Thesis Examples — University of Texas Arlington
• Thesis Statements for a Literature Assignment — The WAC Clearinghouse

The Story of an Hour

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Story Analysis

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Discussion Questions

Written at the turn of the 20th century, how does “The Story of an Hour” portray technology such as the railroad and telegraph? Does Chopin suggest any relationship between modernization or industrialization and social reality for women?

Does “The Story of an Hour” follow conventional Aristotelian tragic plot constructions? Identify the possible inciting incident, peripeteia (reversal of fortune), climax, and anagnorisis (discovery) among the emotional events of the story.

How does the story’s extremely short length and narrative timeframe emphasize its themes? Why did Chopin choose to tell “The Story of an Hour” rather than “The Story of a Day”?

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The Story of an Hour

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The Story of An Hour - Study Guide

Kate Chopin 's The Story of An Hour (1894) is considered one of the finest pieces of Feminist Literature. We hope that our study guide is particularly useful for teachers and students to get the most from the story and appreciate its boldness shaking up the literary community of its time.

Here's the story: The Story of An Hour , Character Analysis & Summary , Genre & Themes , Historical Context , Quotes , Discussion Questions , Useful Links , and Notes/Teacher Comments

Character Analysis & Summary

Plot Summary : Chopin basically summarizes the external events of the story in the first sentence: "Knowing that Mrs. Mallard was afflicted with a heart trouble, great care was taken to break to her as gently as possible the news of her husband's death."

Genre & Themes

Challenge Social Conventions : Rather than conform to what's expected, honor your own needs. Just because it's the way it's always been, doesn't mean it has to continue at your expense.

Situational Irony : Life's a bitch-- just when you think you're free from obligation, you go and die yourself, which kind of makes liberation a bit pointless. Chopin's story is a great example of the literary device called situational irony .

Historical Context

Feminist literature, both fiction and non-fiction, supports feminist goals for the equal rights of women in their economic, social, civic, and political status relative to men. Such literature dates back to the 15th century (The Tale of Joan of Arc by Christine de Pisan), Mary Wollstonecraft in the 18th century, Virginia Woolf , Elizabeth Cady Stanton , Florence Nightingale , Elizabeth Perkins Gilman , and Louisa May Alcott . Kate Chopin 's best known novel, The Awakening (1899) and Mary E. Wilkins Freeman 's A New England Nun (1891) led the emerging modern feminist literary movement into the 20th century, during which women earned the right to vote, fought for economic, social, political, educational, and reproductive rights with Gloria Steinem and the Women's Liberation Movement. The 21st century has brought a resurgence of interest in Margaret Atwood 's The Handmaid's Tale with a new streaming video series , and the Women's March After President Trump's Inauguration (2017) drew more than a million protesters in cities throughout the country and world.

It's helpful to know the list of grievances and demands a group of activitists (mostly women) published in The Declaration of Sentiments in 1848. Principal author and first women's conference organizer was Elizabeth Cady Stanton , with high-profile support from abolitionist Frederick Douglass . Many more struggles and attempts to change public opinion followed the conference; it took 72 more years for women to secure the right to vote.

A brief History of Feminism

“Knowing that Mrs. Mallard was afflicted with a heart trouble, great care was taken to break to her as gently as possible the news of her husband's death."

“She did not hear the story as many women have heard the same, with a paralyzed inability to accept its significance."

“When the storm of grief had spent itself she went away to her room alone. She would have no one follow her."

“She was beginning to recognize this thing that was approaching to possess her, and she was striving to beat it back with her will--as powerless as her two white slender hands would have been."

"'Free, free, free!'' The vacant stare and the look of terror that had followed it went from her eyes. They stayed keen and bright."

"What could love, the unsolved mystery, count for in the face of this possession of self-assertion which she suddenly recognized as the strongest impulse of her being!"

"When the doctors came they said she had died of heart disease--of the joy that kills."

Discussion Questions

9. Elaborate on Chopin's uses of irony: 1) Situational Irony : when she gets her freedom, she dies anyway 2) Verbal irony : What is said explicitly is much different than the text's inferences (thinking rather than saying). Reacting to news of a spouse's death with relief, nevermind "monstrous joy" is an "inappropriate" response, for sure. She keeps these thoughts in her head (whispering her chant), with the door closed.

10. Discuss the concept of repression and Chopin's assertion of her real cause of death: "the joy that kills."

11. Read Chopin's allegory about freedom from a cage, her short-short story, Emancipation: A Life Fable . Compare its theme, tone, symbols, and use of irony to this story.

Essay Prompt : Tell the same story from Josephine's point of view (remember, Louisa keeps her door shut most of the time).

Essay Prompt : Consider reading the one act play by Susan Glaspell , Trifles (1916), about a murder trial which challenges our perceptions of justice and morality. Compare it to Chopin's The Story of An Hour

Essay Prompt : Read Kate Chopin 's biography (feel free to extend your research to other sources). How does her personal story reflect her writing?

Useful Links

Biography and Works by Kate Chopin

American Literature's biographies of featured Women Writers

ELA Common Core Lesson plan ideas for "The Story of An Hour"

Veiled Hints and Irony in Chopin's "The Story of An Hour"

Feminist Approaches to Literature , read more about the genre

Kate Chopin's "The Awakening": Searching for Women & Identity

KateChopin.org's biography and assessment of her work

Is It Actually Ironic? TED-Ed lessons on irony

Notes/Teacher Comments

Visit our Teacher Resources , supporting literacy instruction across all grade levels

American Literature's Study Guides

• The Story of an Hour by Kate Chopin Words: 855
• Mrs. Mallard in “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin Words: 1007
• The Yellow Wallpaper and The Story of an Hour Comparison Words: 1877
• Freedom in Kate Chopin’s “Story of an Hour” Words: 2229
• Symbolism in The Story of an Hour by Kate Chopin Words: 624
• The Forbidden Fruit in The Story of an Hour by Kate Chopin Words: 607
• Unhappy Marriage in “The Story of an Hour” by K. Chopin Words: 1219
• American Fiction: “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin Words: 892
• The Story of an Hour and The Storm by Kate Chopin Words: 833
• Kate Chopin’s “The Story of an Hour” Analysis Words: 932
• Irony at the End of The Story of an Hour Words: 600
• Literary Style of Chopin’s “The Story of an Hour” Words: 1237
• Fiction Elements in Chopin’s The Story of an Hour Words: 599
• Trappings of Marriage in Chopin’s “The Story of an Hour” Words: 1114
• Ambiguity and Irony in “The Story of an Hour” Words: 552
• Gilman’s “The Yellow Wallpaper” vs. Chopin’s “The Story of an Hour” Comparison Words: 1100
• Literary Analysis of Chopin’s “The Story of an Hour” Words: 890

The Story of an Hour Analysis & Summary – Essay Example

This sample will help you write a The Story of an Hour analysis essay! Here you’ll find a The Story of an Hour summary. Essay also contains a plot and character analysis.

Introduction

The story of an hour introduction, the story of an hour main plot, the story of an hour conclusion, the story of an hour analysis.

The Story of an Hour is a short story written by Kate Chopin in 1894. This famous piece of literature was controversial for its time, as the story mentioned a female protagonist who felt relieved after her husband’s death. The conclusion of The Story of an Hour is ironic, which makes the ending memorable.

The following The Story of an Hour literary analysis essay will summarize the plot and present an extensive character analysis of Mrs. Mallard. It will be helpful for those writing a The Story of an Hour critical analysis.

Kate Chopin (born Catherine O’Flaherty) was an American writer. She is best known for her narratives of delicate and brave women’s inner lives. Her novel “The Awakening” and her short stories, among them The Story of an Hour, are being read in countries all over the world today. She is widely recognized as one of the most important authors in America.

In 1984, Kate Chopin wrote The Story of an Hour. It portrays a woman, Louise Mallard, who lost her husband in an accident. However, she later discovers that the husband survived. Mrs. Mallard goes through many emotions and feelings, reevaluating her life. That ultimately kills her when she meets her presumably dead husband at the door. The following The Story of an Hour essay will focus on the plot and the protagonist’s self-development.

The Story of an Hour Summary

Louise Mallard, the main character, had always had a heart problem. It was not a secret for her friends and relatives, so everyone tried to protect her from worries.

One day her husband, Brently Mallard, was mistaken for having died in a horrible railroad accident. Richard, Mr. Mallard’s friend, was the one who learned about this death while in the office. Josephine, Louise’s sister, broke the news to her.

Josephine was very cautious because of Mrs. Mallard’s health issue. She feared such a tragedy would cause a heart attack. Bit by bit, she strategized how to tell everything to her sister, aher plan went perfectly well. Mrs. Mallard wept only once. She did not receive the story like many women would, with a helpless incapacity to acknowledge its meaning. She only cried in her sister’s arms with a feeling of a sudden, wild abandonment (Woodlief 2).

Immediately Mrs. Mallard found herself wondering how she could survive without her husband. She went to a room and locked herself to contemplate the consequences of his death. She was devastated, and this sadness was only natural. This man had been close to her, even though only for a short time. Her sister Josephine and Mr. Richard also mourned the loss (Taibah 1).

Mrs. Mallard was alone in that room, thinking about the future. As she was contemplating her fate, instead of grief, she began realizing that this was the beginning of a better part of her life. Louise saw independence and plenty of possibilities to do what her heart desired. Now, she had only to think about herself.

Later, Josephine comes to Louise’s room, crying with a joyous smile. They descend the house’s stairs, where Mr. Mallard appears at the door. He was not involved in the accident and did not understand why Josephine was crying. At the shock of seeing her husband again, Mrs. Mallard collapses. The doctors declare that she died because of the problems with her heart.

Health issues of the central character play a significant role in the story. The author managed to bring suspense in the way she described telling the bad news to a person with a heart problem. Josephine, Louise’s sister, tries her best to be careful and attentive, expecting a painful response. However, Mrs. Mallard reacts better than anticipated.

The story focuses mostly on femininity and the institution of marriage. The analysis of The Story of an Hour has to speculate on it to reveal the core message.

The author was able to illustrate that men entirely dominate the institution of marriage. Mr. Mallard, for instance, treated his wife the way she wanted only from time to time. For years, Louise has done many things to please her husband without looking after her well-being. So, having received the disturbing news, she is quite happy. It seemed that she had never cared for her husband at all.

Or did she? Mrs. Mallard’s reaction to the death of a spouse is complicated. She cannot escape the loneliness and grief that came with the loss. But the possibility of happiness prevails. Louise knew that marriage had made her a subject for him against her will. She only felt sorrow for the loss of his life but not for living without him. She felt deep inside that she had been freed from the chains of living for another person.

Mr. Mallard’s apparent death saddened Louise at first. She was devastated about his fate but regained strength quickly. Louise was well aware of the fact that she could not bring her husband back. So, she came to terms with it, which wasn’t difficult. Mrs. Mallard saw beyond the painful moment, anticipating freedom for the rest of her life.

The room and environment around Mrs. Mallard symbolize her desire for freedom. For example, Mrs. Mallard could see the tops of trees through the window. They were all aquiver with the new spring life on the open square before her house. There was a delicious breath of rain in the air. A peddler was weeping his wares in the street below. There were spots of blue sky showing up here and there through the clouds in the west facing her window, which had met and piled up one above the other (Woodlief 1).

An open window could be interpreted as a metaphor. It reflects new possibilities and resources that Mrs. Mallard now had in her sights without anybody stopping her. She referred to it as the late spring of life.

The story reveals how women were secretly marginalized. At the time, society expected them to pursue wealth and safety, which came with a husband. Liberty should be neither their worry nor their goal. When Louise felt freedom after Mr. Mallard’s death, she kept it secret for obvious reasons. But then, her sister arrived.

Mrs. Mallard was shocked by the sight of her husband alive. All of her newfound liberty and dreams came crashing down at that moment. This shattering experience even goes to the extreme of destroying her life. Whereas she was to be happy to see her husband alive, Louise died from a heart attack.

Situational irony is presented in the author’s stylistic use of words: “She had died of heart disease…of the joy that kills.” People around anticipated this tragedy from the news about Mr. Mallard’s death, not miraculous survival.

The author explored the character of Mrs. Mallard throughout this story. The reader can’t be surprised by her sudden death or miss its irony. Louise is a woman with a great desire for independence, which a man has deprived her of through marriage. Mr. Mallard represents the absence of her liberty that restores after his death. When Mrs. Mallard sees her husband at the door once again, she collapses and never wakes up.

Based on this The Story of an Hour literary analysis, we can draw several important conclusions. Mrs. Mallard couldn’t control her emotions when they concerned the most vital matters. The lack of liberty and independence may have caused her heart problems in the first place. And they cost her life in the end.

Her husband, Mr. Mallard, took Louise’s freedom when he married her. However, as it became apparent from the story, he never valued her. When she died, he had finally faced the consequences of always taking her existence for granted.

Therefore, the oppressor faced even worse tragedy than the oppressed. The dramatic irony of Mr. Mallard’s unawareness of his wife’s true feelings towards him is a big part of the story. So, in the end, it was Mr. Mallard’s presence that killed his wife.

• Chopin, Kate. The Story of an hour . The Kate Chopin International Society. Web.
• Woodlief, Ann. The Story of an Hour . 2011, Virginia Commonwealth University. Web.

What is the symbolism in The Story of an Hour?

Through The Story of an Hour, the author presents us with the inner feelings and thoughts of a woman using various symbols. Mrs. Mallard’s heart problem symbolizes her dissatisfaction with the marriage, while the open window illustrates her aspirations towards a better, independent life.

What is the meaning behind The Story of an Hour?

Kate Chopin’s The Story of an Hour analysis illustrates that the author wanted to tell us how the society of that time was unfair towards women. It also shows the delicate and complicated inner world of a woman.

What does The Story of an Hour critique?

The Story of an Hour criticizes the typical experience of marriage in the 1890s. For women, such marriage was repressive and meant their loss of personal freedoms. Therefore, the story criticizes the society of that time dominated by men.

How do you start a critical analysis of The Story of an Hour?

Start your analysis of The Story of an Hour with a short introduction. Remember to say a few words about its author and her life. Next, talk about the story and let the reader know what it is about.

What are the two main themes in The Story of an Hour?

Firstly, the theme of a female search for self-identity is featured strongly in the story. The second theme is that of repressive marriage. The reader sees it in the way Mrs. Mallard’s reaction toward her husband’s death shifts.

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A Summary and Analysis of Kate Chopin’s ‘The Story of an Hour’

By Dr Oliver Tearle (Loughborough University)

Some short stories can say all they need to do in just a few pages, and Kate Chopin’s three-page 1894 story ‘The Story of an Hour’ (sometimes known as ‘The Dream of an Hour’) is a classic example. Yet those three pages remain tantalisingly ambiguous, perhaps because so little is said, so much merely hinted at. Yet Chopin’s short story is, upon closer inspection, a subtle, studied analysis of death, marriage, and personal wishes.

Written in April 1894 and originally published in Vogue in December of that year, the story focuses on an hour in the life of a married woman who has just learnt that her husband has apparently died.

‘The Story of an Hour’: plot summary

What happens in that brief hour, that story of an hour? A married woman, Mrs Louise Mallard, who has heart trouble, learns that her husband has died in a railroad accident.

Her sister Josephine breaks the news to her; it was her husband’s friend Richards who first heard about the railroad disaster and saw her husband’s name, Brently Mallard, at the top of the list of fatalities. Her first reaction is to weep at the news that her husband is dead; she then takes herself off to her room to be alone.

She sinks into an armchair and finds herself attuned to a series of sensations: the trees outside the window ‘aquiver with the new spring life’, the ‘breath of rain’ in the air; the sound of a peddler crying his wares in the street below. She finds herself going into a sort of trancelike daze, a ‘suspension of intelligent thought’.

Then, gradually, a feeling begins to form within her: a sense of freedom. Now her husband is dead, it seems, she feels free. She dreads seeing her husband’s face (as she knows she must, when she goes to identify the body), but she knows that beyond that lie years and years of her life yet to be lived, and ‘would all belong to her absolutely’.

She reflects that she had loved her husband – sometimes. Sometimes she hadn’t. But now, that didn’t matter: what matters is the ‘self-assertion’, the declaration of independence, that her life alone represents a new start.

But then, her sister Josephine calls from outside the door for her to come out, worried that Louise is making herself ill. But Louise doesn’t feel ill: she feels on top of the world. She used to dread the prospect of living to a ripe old age, but now she welcomes such a prospect. Eventually she opens the door and she and Josephine go back downstairs.

Richards is still down there, waiting for them. Then, there’s a key in the front door and who should enter but … Mrs Mallard’s husband, Brently Mallard.

It turns out he was nowhere near the scene of the railroad accident, and is unharmed! Mrs Mallard is so shocked at his return that she dies, partly because of her heart disease but also, so ‘they’ said, from the unexpected ‘joy’ of her husband’s return.

‘The Story of an Hour’: analysis

In some ways, ‘The Story of an Hour’ prefigures a later story like D. H. Lawrence’s ‘ Odour of Chrysanthemums ’ (1911), which also features a female protagonist whose partner’s death makes her reassess her life with him and to contemplate the complex responses his death has aroused in her.

However, in Lawrence’s story the husband really has died (in a mining accident), whereas in ‘The Story of an Hour’, we find out at the end of the story that Mr Mallard was not involved in the railroad accident and is alive and well. In a shock twist, it is his wife who dies, upon learning that he is still alive.

What should we make of this ‘dream of an hour’? That alternative title is significant, not least because of the ambiguity surrounding the word ‘dream’. Is Louise so plunged into shock by the news of her husband’s apparent death that she begins to hallucinate that she would be better off without him? Is this her way of coping with traumatic news – to try to look for the silver lining in a very black cloud? Or should we analyse ‘dream’ as a sign that she entertains aspirations and ambitions, now her husband is out of the way?

‘The Dream of an Hour’ perhaps inevitably puts us in mind of Kate Chopin’s most famous story, the short novel The Awakening (1899), whose title reflects its female protagonist Edna Pontellier’s growing awareness that there is more to life than her wifely existence.

But Louisa Mallard’s ‘awakening’ remains a dream; when she awakes from it, upon learning that her husband is still alive and all her fancies about her future life have been in vain, she dies.

‘The Story of an Hour’ and modernism

‘The Story of an Hour’ is an early example of the impressionistic method of storytelling which was also being developed by Anton Chekhov around the same time as Chopin, and which would later be used by modernists such as Katherine Mansfield, James Joyce, and Virginia Woolf.

Although the story uses an omniscient third-person narrator, we are shown things from particular character perspectives in a way that reflects their own confusions and erratic thoughts – chiefly, of course, Louisa Mallard’s own.

But this impressionistic style – which is more interested in patterns of thought, daydreaming, and emotional responses to the world than in tightly structured plots – continues right until the end of the story.

Consider the final sentence of the story: ‘When the doctors came they said she had died of heart disease – of joy that kills.’ The irony, of course, is that Louisa appears to have accepted her husband’s death and to have taken his demise as a chance to liberate herself from an oppressive marriage (note Chopin’s reference to the lines on her face which ‘bespoke repression and even a certain strength’ – what did she need that strength for, we wonder?).

So it was not joy but disappointment, if anything, that brought on the heart attack that killed her. But the (presumably male) doctors who attended her death would not have assumed any such thing: they would have analysed her death as a result of her love for her husband, and the sheer joy she felt at having him back.

Chopin’s story also foreshadows Katherine Mansfield’s ‘The Garden Party’ , and Laura Sheridan’s enigmatic emotional reaction to seeing her first dead body (as with Chopin’s story, a man who has died in an accident). If you enjoyed this analysis of ‘The Story of an Hour’, you might also enjoy Anton Chekhov’s 1900 story ‘At Christmas Time’, to which Chopin’s story has been compared.

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The Story Of An Hour - Free Essay Examples And Topic Ideas

Writing essays about “The Story of an Hour” is a fascinating way to look at the themes of women’s lives, freedom, and what society expects of them. With examples of essays on “The Story of an Hour,” readers can learn how to analyze the short story by Kate Chopin and its prompts. As Mrs. Mallard is the main character, the essay can focus on her questions of self-discovery and her complicated feelings when she hears that her husband has died. The feminist issues in essay examples on The Story Of An Hour can be viewed from different points of view in free persuasive essays about the book. These essays can also examine society’s limits on women during that time. The Story of an Hour essay topics can be about marriage, the independence of women, or the role that society plays in shaping women’s lives. Researching free argumentative essays about The Story Of An Hour allows you to learn more about the author’s goals and historical setting. To guide the essay’s case and make a good outline, it’s essential to write a clear topic sentence and thesis statement. In the essay introduction, summarize the story, state your thesis, and list the essential points you’ll discuss. The conclusion should summarize the main points, consider how the story affected the reader, and end with a statement that makes them think. By writing The Story Of An Hour research paper, readers can explore the story’s deep themes, look at society’s standards for women, and learn more about how Kate Chopin explores female independence and personal freedom.

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How To Write an Essay About The Story Of An Hour

Understanding 'the story of an hour'.

Before beginning your essay on Kate Chopin's 'The Story of an Hour,' it is essential to thoroughly understand the short story. Published in 1894, this narrative explores the themes of freedom, identity, and the constraints of marriage in the life of its protagonist, Louise Mallard. Start by analyzing the plot – the news of Mr. Mallard’s death and the subsequent revelation of his survival, which shockingly leads to Louise's death. Understand the historical and cultural context of the late 19th century, focusing on the role of women in society and marriage during this period. Familiarizing yourself with these aspects will provide a solid foundation for your essay.

Developing a Thesis Statement

A compelling essay on 'The Story of an Hour' should be centered around a clear, concise thesis statement. This statement should present a specific viewpoint or argument about the story. For example, you might analyze the concept of freedom and its complex portrayal in the story, or discuss the irony and symbolism used by Chopin. Your thesis will guide the structure and content of your essay and provide a clear path for your analysis.

Gathering Textual Evidence

To support your thesis, gather evidence from the text. This involves closely reading the story to find relevant quotes, descriptions, and instances that align with your thesis. For instance, if exploring the theme of freedom, identify passages that reflect Louise’s feelings and thoughts about her newfound independence. Use these examples to build your argument and give depth to your analysis.

Analyzing Chopin's Techniques and Themes

In your essay, analyze how Chopin uses literary techniques to develop themes and characters. Discuss her use of imagery, symbolism (like the open window), and the story’s structure. For example, explore how the brief time span of the narrative enhances the intensity of Louise's experience. This analysis should demonstrate a deep understanding of the text and how Chopin communicates her ideas.

Concluding the Essay

Conclude your essay by summarizing your main points and restating your thesis in light of the discussion. Your conclusion should tie together your insights into 'The Story of an Hour,' emphasizing the significance of your findings. Reflect on the broader implications of the story, such as its relevance to modern discussions on gender roles and marital expectations.

Reviewing and Refining Your Essay

After completing your essay, review and refine it. Ensure that your arguments are coherent, your evidence is clearly presented, and your writing is free of grammatical errors. Consider seeking feedback from teachers or peers to help improve your essay. A well-crafted essay on 'The Story of an Hour' will not only demonstrate your understanding of the story but also your ability to engage critically with literary texts.

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Home — Essay Samples — Literature — The Story of An Hour — A Literary Analysis of “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin

A Literary Analysis of "The Story of an Hour" by Kate Chopin

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Published: Jan 30, 2024

Words: 421 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Table of contents

Exposition of mrs. mallard's subjugation, liberation and empowerment, suppression and the reversal of freedom.

• Chopin, K. (1894). The Story of an Hour. Vogue.

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Analysis of “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin Research Paper

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Introduction

External and internal conflict, physical and cultural setting, literary devices, works cited.

Unfortunately, oppression of women is a severe and extended process that was especially active in the 1890s. A number of famous American writers of those years used their talent of choosing the right words to describe how women and men may oppress each other and deprive their beloved ones of freedom. A short writing “A Story of an Hour,” created by Kate Chopin in 1894, touches on the topic of unhappiness during the marriage.

A woman named Louise Mallard is informed of her husband’s tragic death. While trying to process this information and understand her own feelings, the woman wants to be alone in her room. Unexpectedly, instead of continuing mourning and grieving, Louise meets with another feeling – freedom. While knowing that she will miss her husband, the woman also feels relieved that she will not have to live with him for years – she is now free. However, when she learns that her husband is actually alive, she dies, as noted by the doctors, “of heart disease–of the joy that kills” (Chopin). It is possible to say that the story evokes strange emotions and leaves an ambiguous impression, making one think about the connections between love, marriage, happiness, and freedom.

In “The Story of an Hour,” there is both internal and external conflict. The essence of the latter is in the opposition of a person to society and its norms. Chopin refers to one of “the numerous paradoxes against which the woman had to survive in the American society in the 19 th century” – imposed roles and stereotypes (Kusi and Zetang-Jua 2). When finally feeling free, Louise joyfully realized that “there would be no powerful will bending hers in that blind persistence with which men and women believe they have a right to impose a private will upon a fellow-creature” (Chopin). Thus, it is evident that the conflict discussed in the short story is between the society that wants males and females to follow their roles and real people who are tired of stereotypes and taken freedom.

Further, the second conflict in “The Story of an Hour” is the internal struggle and confusion of Louise. It is challenging for her to understand and accept the duality of her feelings. On the one hand, her husband loved her and never treated her badly, which is why it is difficult to name her marriage unhappy. On the other hand, being someone’s spouse deprived the woman of her right to make decisions and live in the way she wanted. Mrs. Mallard is simultaneously relieved and overwhelmed by the terrible news and tries to decide whether her new freedom or old happiness is greater:

And yet she had loved him – sometimes. Often she had not. What did it matter! What could love, the unsolved mystery, count for in the face of this possession of self-assertion which she suddenly recognized as the strongest impulse of her being!

“Free! Body and soul free!” she kept whispering… (Chopin)

This is probably why Louise dies when her husband returns home. The woman has already accepted her new happiness, has imagined and loved living alone, and the great news of her spouse being alive makes it impossible for her to return to reality.

The setting in the story is also essential for understanding the conflict and main idea. As mentioned above, the story takes action in the 19 th century when many roles and stereotypes were imposed on both males and females (Jassam and Jassam 2). Such a circumstance weighs on Louise, not allowing her to understand that she is being oppressed (Yazgı 148), but these societal norms do not seem to bother her sister and husband’s friend (Chopin). The physical setting in the story is the Mallards’ house. It is a neutral territory where Louise is both happy and safe, but her freedom is somewhere else, behind the window. Finally, the time in the story is limited – all events take one hour, and the author shows how much a character’s feelings and life, in general, can change in such a small amount of time.

As with most literary works, this short story is filled with numerous language devices that add to the ambiguity and power of “The Story of an Hour.” To begin with, it is essential to discuss repetition since, as noticed by Hu, it is “replete with repetition of words, phrases, structures, ideas, and themes” (1). Among many other examples, the window in Louise’s room is selected to prove the point of this paragraph. There are three sentences in which the window is mentioned in a similar form: “There stood, facing the open window, a comfortable, roomy armchair,” “There were patches of blue sky showing here and there through the clouds that had met and piled one above the other in the west facing her window,” and “she was drinking in a very elixir of life through that open window” (Chopin). According to Hu, the repetition in these fragments is used to portray Mrs. Mallard as a vivid woman who suddenly changes her mind (3). Therefore, this literary device is needed to allow the readers better understand Louise.

Another language device in this short story is symbolism, and it is also discussed in the example of the window and the doors in Mrs. Mallard’s house. When trying to process the news and imagine her future life, she is looking precisely out the window and realizes her freedom, feels being “body and soul free” (Chopin). The window is the symbol of liberty, life, and uncommon happiness for Louise. At the same time, the doors in their house symbolize the past and death as they provide no escape from stereotypes, oppression, and unhappy marriage. When Mrs. Mallard locks herself in her room, the closed door is a symbol of the past she has left behind; however, opening the door for her sister means that Louise returns to her past and is going to meet her death. It is also interesting that, for Mr. Mallard, the front door that he enters actually symbolizes life, so this is a dual symbolism – if her husband is alive, Louise has to die to be free.

To draw a conclusion, one may say that “The Story of an Hour” is indeed rather ambiguous writing that leaves the reader with confusing emotions. Is it correct to consider Louise’s death as the final escape from oppression and unhappy marriage? Was it possible for her to live happily with her husband, who loved and admired her? These are the questions I have after reading the story. The opposition between death and life, social norms and self-perception, and marriage and freedom make this story, written in just a few paragraphs, unique in terms of feminist literature.

Chopin, Kate. “The Story of an Hour.” Virginia Commonwealth University , 1894.

Hu, Aihua. “The Art of Repetition in ‘The Story of an Hour’.” A Quarterly Journal of Short Articles, Notes and Reviews , 2020, pp. 1-6.

Jassam, Aseel Hatif, and Hadeel Hatif Jassam. “Kate Chopin’s “The Story of an Hour”: A Feminist Discourse of a Married Woman Reclaiming Her Lost Female Identity.” Social Sciences International Research Journal , vol. 6, no. 1, 2020, pp. 1-5.

Kusi, David Toh, and Zetang-Jua, Amandine Ankainkom. “Aesthetic Significance and Biographical Signposting: Kate Chopin’s “The Story of an Hour” and the Release of Patriarchal Grief.” International Journal of Integrative Humanism , vol. 12, no. 1, 2020, pp. 1-9.

Yazgı, Cihan. “Tragic Elements and Discourse-Time in ‘The Story of an Hour’.” The Explicator, vol. 78, no. 3-4, 2020, pp. 147-152.

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IvyPanda. (2023, April 6). Analysis of “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin. https://ivypanda.com/essays/analysis-of-the-story-of-an-hour-by-kate-chopin/

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IvyPanda . "Analysis of “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin." April 6, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/analysis-of-the-story-of-an-hour-by-kate-chopin/.

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illustration in renaissance italy: florence in the 1490s, woodcut book illustration in renaissance italy: the first illustrated books, woodcut book illustration in renaissance italy: venice in the 1490s, woodcut book illustration in renaissance italy: venice in the sixteenth century, wordplay in twentieth-century prints, work and leisure: eighteenth-century genre painting in korea, x-ray style in arnhem land rock art, yamato-e painting, yangban: the cultural life of the joseon literati, yayoi culture (ca. 300 b.c.–300 a.d.), the year one, years leading to the iranian revolution, 1960–79, yuan dynasty (1271–1368), zen buddhism, 0 && essaysctrl.themev == 'departments / collections' && essaysctrl.deptv == null">, departments / collections '">.

How the World Became Rich by Mark Koyama and Jared Rubin and Slouching Towards Utopia, by J. Bradford DeLong: A Review Essay

This essay provides a review of two important recent books on economic growth: How the World Became Rich by Mark Koyama and Jared Rubin and Slouching Towards Utopia, by J. Bradford DeLong. Each book is noteworthy for its erudition and breadth. I explore strengths and weaknesses of these books and make some proposals on new ways to conceptualize and study long run socioeconomic development. My discussion emphasizes the importance of contingency in determining long run inequalities across countries as well the potential for ideas from complexity theory to augment standard growth modelling.

Financial support from the James M. and Cathleen D. Stone Foundation is appreciated. The views expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Bureau of Economic Research.

MARC RIS BibTeΧ

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At the Jerusalem synagogue where Hersh Goldberg-Polin danced in life, grief and anger reign after his death

JERUSALEM — Three hundred and thirty-two days after Hersh Goldberg-Polin danced in the courtyard next to his Jerusalem synagogue on the holiday of Simchat Torah, more than a thousand people gathered there in grief and prayer to mourn his murder by Hamas terrorists in Gaza.

During the Sunday night vigil, the courtyard railings were lined with oversized yellow ribbons to symbolize advocacy for the hostages, Hapoel Jerusalem soccer flags — the 23-year-old’s favorite team — and posters that read, “We love you, stay strong, survive,” a mantra coined by his mother, Rachel Goldberg-Polin.

Just hours earlier, one of the posters had been hanging over the balcony of the home of Shira Ben-Sasson, a leader of Hakhel, the Goldberg-Polins’ egalitarian congregation in the Baka neighborhood of Jerusalem.

“We were sure we would take it down when he came home,” Ben-Sasson said.

The community wanted to unite while respecting the Goldberg-Polins’ desire for privacy, she said, prompting them to organize the prayer gathering.

“But it’s like a Band-Aid or giving first aid, it’s what you do in an emergency. I don’t know how we go on after this,” she said.

A covered courtyard at the Hakhel congregation was filled with mourners the day after Hersh Goldberg-Polin, whose family are prominent members, was found to have been killed in Gaza. Hundreds of other people crowded outside the gates, Sept. 1, 2024. (Deborah Danan)

She added that the community, which has a large contingent of English-speaking immigrants, was not prepared for the High Holidays, which begin in about a month. She said, “Seeing his empty seat is hard.”

For Ben-Sasson, who wore a T-shirt bearing the Talmudic dictum “There is no greater mitzvah than the redeeming of captives,” the tragedy is especially painful because, she said, it could have been avoided with a ceasefire agreement that freed hostages.

“Hersh was alive 48 hours ago. We think a deal could have saved him. There is no military solution to this,” she said.

That feeling of bereavement, often mixed with betrayal, pervaded gatherings across Israel on Sunday, as the country struggled with the news that six hostages who may have been freed in an agreement were now dead as negotiations continue to stall. Speakers at protests in Tel Aviv blamed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who himself apologized for not getting the hostages out alive but blamed Hamas for obstructing a deal. The country’s labor union, the Histadrut, has called a national strike on Monday to demand a deal.

A rare early September rain lashed parts of Israel on Sunday, leading to a widespread interpretation: God, too, was weeping.

Some at the Jerusalem gathering, including the relative of another former hostage, said Netanyahu had chosen defeating Hamas over freeing the captives.

Josef Avi Yair Engel’s grandson Ofir was released from Hamas captivity in November. He paid tribute to Hersh Goldberg-Polin, murdered in captivity, in Jerusalem, Sept. 1, 2024. (Deborah Danan)

Josef Avi Yair Engel, whose grandson Ofir, 18, was released from Hamas captivity in November during that month’s ceasefire deal, expressed shock over Hersh’s murder but said he was not surprised, given the wartime policies of Netanyahu’s government.

“We knew months ago this was going to happen. Bibi’s formula, to dismantle Hamas and return the hostages, wasn’t logical. It’s an either/or situation,” Engel said, referring to Netanyahu by his nickname. “He’s tearing the country apart. I’m afraid that in the coming months there won’t be a state at all.”

Engel said he felt a close bond with Hersh’s father Jon Polin, not only because of their joint activism in the hostage families’ tent outside the Prime Minister’s Residence, but also because of their shared identity as Jerusalemites.

“There aren’t many of us in the hostage circle,” he said. “We’re like family.”

Sarah Mann, who did not know the family personally, said the weekend’s tragedy reminded her of Oct. 7.

“This day has sparks of the seventh, which created numbness and an inability to talk. Just complete shock,” she said.

Mourners left notes at a gathering at Hersh Goldberg-Polin’s family synagogue in Jerusalem. Many of the messages used the Hebrew word for “sorry.” (Deborah Danan)

Part of the reason for that, Mann said, was Rachel, who she described as a “force of faith.” Goldberg-Polin’s mother emerged as the most prominent advocate for the hostages globally and became a symbol in her own right as she crisscrossed the world calling for her son’s freedom.

“Millions of people around the world held onto her. Once that was cut, people’s ability to hold onto faith was knocked out today. But even though this has shattered us, we need to keep holding onto God,” Mann said.

For Susi Döring Preston, the day called to mind was not Oct. 7 but Yom Kippur, and its communal solemnity.

She said she usually steers clear of similar war-related events because they are too overwhelming for her.

“Before I avoided stuff like this because I guess I still had hope. But now is the time to just give in to needing to be around people because you can’t hold your own self up any more,” she said, tears rolling down her face. “You need to feel the humanity and hang onto that.”

Like so many others, Döring Preston paid tribute to the Goldberg-Polins’ tireless activism. “They needed everyone else’s strength but we drew so much strength from them and their efforts, “she said. “You felt it could change the outcome. But war is more evil than good. I think that’s the crushing thing. You can do everything right, but the outcome is still devastating.”

Guy Gordon, with his daughter Maya, added a broken heart to the piece of tape he has worn daily to mark the number of days since the hostage crisis began, Sept. 1, 2024. (Deborah Danan)

Guy Gordon, a member of Hakhel who moved to Israel from Dublin, Ireland, in the mid-1990s, said the efforts towards ensuring Hersh’s safe return have been an anchor for the community during the war. The community knew him as the family described him in its announcement of his funeral on Tuesday, as “a child of light, love and peace” who enjoyed exploring the world and coming home to his family, including his parents and younger sisters, Leebie and Orly.

“It gave us something to hope for, and pray for and to demonstrate for,” he said. “We had no choice but to be unreasonably optimistic. Tragically it transpired that he survived until the very end.”

Gordon, like many others in the crowd, wore a piece of duct tape marked with the number of days since Oct. 7 — a gesture initiated by Goldberg-Polin’s mother. Unlike on previous days, though, his tape also featured a broken red heart beside the number.

Nadia Levene, a family friend, also reflected on the improbability of Hersh’s survival.

“He did exactly what his parents begged him to do. He was strong. He did survive. And look what happened,” Levene said.

She hailed Rachel Goldberg-Polin’s “unwavering strength and belief in God,” adding, “There were times I lost faith. I suppose I was angry with God. But she just kept inspiring us all to pray, pray, pray.”

Leah Silver of Jerusalem examined stickers showing Rachel Goldberg-Polin’s mantra for her son Hersh, who was murdered in captivity in Gaza, at a gathering after Hersh’s death, Sept. 1, 2024. (Deborah Danan)

Jerusalem resident Leah Silver rejected politicizing the hostages’ deaths.

“Everything turns political so quickly. I came here because I felt that before all the protests, we need to just mourn for a moment and to pray. And show respect for each other,” she said. “We’ve become confused about who the enemy is. It’s very sad.”

But not everyone at the gathering joined in to sing Israel’s national anthem at the closing of the prayer gathering.

“I’m sorry, I can’t sing ‘Hatikvah,'” Reza Green, a Baka resident who did not know the Goldberg-Polins personally, said. “I’m too angry. We shouldn’t be here.”

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