Few books in the literary world have managed to eloquently convey what it means to be a woman. Even fewer have succeeded in illustrating the joy, pain, and innate desires that face women of all classes, races, and social levels. In Kate Chopin's The Awakening and Zora Neale Hurston's Their Eyes Were Watching God we are introduced to two fascinating women whose search for romantic love has allowed them to find self-acceptance and inner freedom. Even as Edna and Janie struggle to fulfill their innate desires, society's expectations create an overwhelming barrier that both hinders and encourages their journey to self-acceptance and freedom. This not only allows them to discover the essence of who they are as women, but provides them with a positive and renewed outlook on the world. Both of these women's worlds were not easy, as rules, regulations, and "harmless" advice from friends, family, and strangers were always imposed on their lives. Throughout the 19th century, social norms for women were exceptionally strict; to the point that a woman was punished simply for walking down the street without a male companion to protect her chastity. Women's sole task was to raise "virtuous children" for the good of society, completely abandoning their appetite for the simple pleasures of life. In The Awakening, Adele's constant pregnancies quickly establish her in society as the "perfect woman," not because of her personality or virtues, but rather because she dedicates her body and soul to caring for and creating children. In many ways Adele reveals herself to be a monotonous character whose constant association with her children leaves no time for her personal desires, something of which Edna is very aware. Edna on the contrary... in the center of the paper... where it happens is when she argues against herself about the ability she has to escape to chase her dreams. Her experiences are positive and in leaving her community she does not regret having spent twenty years as Jody's companion; because in a strange and cynical way, her repression has allowed her to thrive and silently prepare for true happiness. Throughout both novels, Edna and Janie's decisions and actions have a significant impact on the outcome of the novels. Edna's desire to be completely free from society's shackles ultimately backfires as her need to be surrounded by people who understand and objectify society as she does, hinders her journey. Although Adele is a dear friend, her ignorance of their true condition causes Edna to feel furious and compassionate towards her. Adele due to the birth of her children and her incapacity