Analyzing "The Storm."

The setting in this story creates the perfect environment for an

adulterous affair.   In Kate Chopin's "The Storm", Chopin not only

creates the perfect setting but also uses the setting as a symbol of the

affair.   Most likely occurring in the late 1800's and taking place in

the deep South, the story gives an account of an adulterous affair

between Calixta, wife to Bobinot and mother to four year old Bibi, and

Alcee, husband to Clarisse, during a terrible rain storm.   The presence

of the storm is not merely coincidental.   It is the driving force behind

the story and the affair.   As the storm begins, climaxes and ends so

does the affair and the story.

From the opening we see that Chopin intends to use the storm to move the

story forward.   The story begins with Bobinot and Bibi inside the local

store. As they attempt to leave they notice storm clouds approaching the

town.   Deciding to wait out the storm, they remain inside.   Meanwhile,

Calixta is at home sewing and unaware of the storm.   Soon realizing the

storm is approaching, she begins frantically running about the house

closing windows and doors and retrieving clothes left on the porch.

Seeking shelter from the rain, Alcee approaches as Calixta steps on to

her front porch.   Chopin writes, "As she stepped outside, Alcee

Laballiere rode in at the gate" (96).   By providing a terrible storm

Chopin creates an ingenious setting for this chance meeting. Chopin's

intentions become even more apparent immediately after Alcee's

introduction.   To propel the story forward Chopin uses the storm to

force Alcee inside Calixta's home.   The story reads: "He expressed an

intention to remain outside, but it was soon apparent that he might as

well have been out in the open: the water beat in upon the boards in

driving sheets, and he went inside, closing the door after him" (Chopin

96).   Author and critic Barbara Ewell wrote, "Chopin adroitly matches

the storm's irresistible development with the effects of... [continues]

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