The Relationship Between Identity and Power in “Desiree’s Baby” In Kate Chopin’s “Desiree’s Baby,” Armand, Desiree, and their child hold a degree of power based on race, and family background. Armand for example, sustains great power over the slaves at his father’s plantation. His family name and racial status allow him to hold such a position. Chopin writes, “Young Aubigny’s rule was a strict one, too, and under it his …showed first 75 words of 1106 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1106 total…s footsteps. The child is one of the reasons that Desiree’s identity changes throughout the story. After she is told to leave, Desiree’s identity is shattered and that brings her into the swamp with the child. Chopin, Kate. “Desiree’s Baby.” The Awakening and Selected Short Stories of Kate Chopin. Ed. Barbara H. Solomon. New York: Signet, 1976. 172-78. Online. Kate Chopin. Internet. 8 October 2000. Available http://www.inform.umd.edu/EdRes/ReadingRoom/Fiction/Chopin/