The awakening has assumed a place in the American literary canon. This edition places the novel in the context of the cultural and regional influences that shape Chopin's narrative. This novel has extensive contemporary readings that examine historical events, including the hurricanes that frequently disrupt life in Louisiana.<BR><BR>Suzanne L. Disheroon is Professor of English at Cedar Valley College, Dallas, Texas.<BR><BR>Barbara C. Ewell is Dorothy Harrell Brown Distinguised Professor of English at Loyola University, New Orleans.<BR><BR>Pamela Glenn Menke is Vice Provost, Education at Miami Dade College and former Professor, English at Regis College.<BR><BR>Susie Scifres is an independent scholar.