At the ’Cadian Ball

How does the cyclone influence the outcome of the story? Identify and analyze other natural elements (e.g., the farmers’ crops, the weeds, and grasses tangled in Calixta’s dress) and discuss the significance of these natural elements and what they symbolize.

Provide examples of local color from “At the ’Cadian Ball’ and discuss how this writing style enables Chopin to analyze and critique the social structures of the Acadiana region of Louisiana.

Explore the lasting consequences of the characters’ lustful actions. Explore the idea of self-control, or lack thereof, in the four main characters. Who is trying to control whom and why?

We only see Clarisse and Calixta in the same place once, and the two women barely exchange words beyond a mostly polite greeting. Discuss the similarities and differences between Clarisse and Calixta. If social class were no longer a barrier between the two women, would it be possible for these characters to maintain a genuine, close friendship? What could each character learn from the other?

While Chopin was initially criticized as vulgar and immoral for including depictions of physical intimacy in her work, she is now celebrated for her strong feminist voice. Calixta embodies feminist ideas by ignoring societal norms and acting on her desires as she sees fit. If Calixta is meant to be the feminist hero of this story, why did Chopin not write her a happy ending? 

Examine Chopin’s depictions of the Black Americans in “At the ’Cadian Ball.” Note any similarities or differences in how Chopin identifies and describes Black Americans compared to the Cajuns and Créoles. With the context of Chopin’s family history in mind (slave owners and confederacy supporters during the Civil War), elaborate on Chopin’s tone and its potential implications for her views on Black Americans.

Read and analyze “The Storm,” which is the sequel to “At the ’Cadian Ball.” How have the characters changed from one story to the other?

Craft a fictional short story that includes an element from the natural world (e.g., a thunderstorm or ocean waves). Create parallels between the natural elements and the other components of your story, particularly the characters. Use these parallels to elaborate on the underlying theme of your story.