1. What is the significance of Mrs. Mallard’s “heart trouble”?
2. What is the significance of freedom in the story? How does the author portray this idea?
3. Describe Mrs. Mallard’s reaction to the death of her husband. Why do you think she feels this way?
4. What does Richards represent in the story?
5. What does Josephine represent in the story?
6. What view of marriage is portrayed in the story? Can this view still apply today?
7. Describe Mrs. Mallard’s journey in the story.

A handout with these questions is available here.