The end of the 19th century marked a turning point in American history. The United States of America was the first industrial nation and a new wave of imperialism had begun. Currently, women are still not equal to men and are expected to live a certain way. At that time, upper-class women were expected to be servants. More than half a century later, in the 1950s, American culture was rapidly transforming. Pop culture changed dramatically, as rock music became popular, television shows became more widespread, and the best actors ever appeared in that era. The fifties were a time of happiness and fun, especially for the average American teenager. The name teenagers was formed at this time because young people were trying to distinguish themselves. Teenagers had a lot of freedom and difficulties. New automobiles and hobbies push young people to do crazy things. The Awakening, by Kate Chopin, reveals a woman, Edna Pontellier, who goes on a rampage. Edna Pontellier is a woman living in the late 19th century in Creole society in southern Louisiana. Originally from Kentucky, she doesn't look like most women from that culture. In the film Dead Poets Society, boys at a private school in Vermont in 1959 become interested in English subject matter, particularly Neil Perry, taught in an unorthodox manner. Edna Pontellier, the main character of The Awakening, and Neil Perry, the main character of Dead Poets Society, share similar characteristics. The two protagonists realize what they want and should do in life. They both have two important people in their lives who help them in their life achievements. Even though Edna and Neil have similar characteristics, they also have differences. Edna Pontellier, in Kate Chopin The Awakening, ...... middle of paper ......elf. The difference between their deaths is that Edna died in the water and Neil died by gun force. Edna's death could also be considered an accident and not a suicide, while Neil's death was an intentional suicide. Edna Pontellier and Neil Perry both experienced a realization in their lives. Both characters have had help from someone in their lives. Even though they went through the same conflicts, they had different passions and fates. The role of women extends from the 1890s to the present. Women are independent, have freedom and have the same opportunities as men. The American adolescent, however, becomes even more distinctive. The 1950s began the evolution of the adolescent and authenticity endures. Works Cited Chopin, Kate. Awakening. New York. Avon Books, 1972. Print. Society of Dead Poets. Real. Peter Weir. Perf. Robin Williams. Touchstone. 1989. DVD.