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Freedom in “The Story of an Hour” Mrs. Mallard’s overwhelming response of “free, free, free!” upon hearing of her husband’s death reflects the attitude of many nineteenth century women. During this time, highly restrictive gend ....

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.... in a comfortable armchair, indicating that this is a place where she feels safe. It is here that Mrs. Mallard seems to have found a way to rectify what she thought wrong in her life. Mrs. Mallard then realizes in a rush of emotion and relief that she is “Free! Body and soul free!” She views the world with a fresh outlook: one where she will be her own person, answering only to herself. For a brief moment the reader is able to see through to how she is truly feeling, her emotional release apparent when she sat “with her head thrown back upon the cushion of the chair...” She is overwhelmed with freedom, opening her arms ....