Kate Chopin

Date of Birth: February 8, 1850

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: August 22, 1904

Biography

Kate Chopin, born Katherine O’Flaherty, was an American author of short stories and novels, best known for her novel “The Awakening,” which is considered one of the earliest works of feminist literature. She was born on February 8, 1850, in St. Louis, Missouri. Her father, Thomas O’Flaherty, was a successful businessman, and her mother, Eliza Faris, came from a French-American family. Kate was well-educated, attending the St. Louis Academy of the Sacred Heart, where she was encouraged to read widely. In 1870, she married Oscar Chopin and moved to New Orleans. The couple had six children. After Oscar’s death in 1882, Kate moved back to St. Louis and began writing to support her family. Chopin’s work was often controversial for its time, addressing themes such as women’s independence and sexuality. Although her work received mixed reviews during her lifetime, she has since been recognized as a pioneer in feminist literature. Kate Chopin died on August 22, 1904.

5 Interesting Facts about Kate Chopin

1. Kate Chopin’s novel “The Awakening” was banned in several places due to its controversial themes.

2. She wrote over 100 short stories that were published in various literary magazines.

3. Chopin’s early education was conducted in both English and French.

4. Her work was largely forgotten after her death, only to be rediscovered in the mid-20th century.

5. Chopin was influenced by French writers such as Guy de Maupassant and Émile Zola.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Kate Chopin

1. “The voice of the sea speaks to the soul.”

2. “She wanted something to happen—something, anything: she did not know what.”

3. “The bird that would soar above the level plain of tradition and prejudice must have strong wings.”

4. “It is better to wake up alone knowing that you are alone, than to wake up with someone and still feel alone.”

5. “The generous abundance of her passion, without guile or trickery, was like a white flame which penetrated and found response in depths in his own sensuous nature that had never yet been reached.”