"The Storm"

The story "The Storm" by Kate Chopin was based in a time when adultery was not not looked upon as lightly as it is now days. As the storm begins and Calixta knows that Bobinot and Bibi are out to the store, "Calixta, at home, felt no uneasiness for their safety." (pg.256, p.6) Calixta is completely unaware of the storm that is coming. Being a housewife in the nineteenth century she seems quite dedicated to her chores; as she is supposed to be. "She had hung Bobinot's Sunday clothes to air and she hastened out to gather them before the rain fell." When an old friend, Alcee, rides up on his horse Calixta invites him in to get out of the rain. This in time turns out to be the turn of event that leads us to wonder why she would invite him into her house when they obviously still had attraction towards each other. As Calixta's worries about Bibi, Alcee becomes her comfort. "Calixta, don't be frightened. Nothing can happen." (pg.257, p.22) Though speaking about the storm, Alcee wants Calixta to know she is safe with him. Soon their passion for each other takes over. In no way does a storm excuse any act of adultery but in this case it makes you wonder why. Why was Calixta married to Bobinot and not Alcee, what happened between the two of them five years ago, and why was everyone so unaware and happy in the end. After their sexual encounter Calixta and Alcee feel renewed and shows no signs of guilt. Something was obviously missing from her relationship with her husband. They move on with their lives as though this is exactly what they needed to help them deal with their marriage. "So the storm passed and everyone was happy." (pg.259, p.39)