Mallard is a young, married woman who is controlled by her husband. After a short period of disbelief of the railroad accident, she began to realize she was free to do as she wished. Her world seemed to have new life, until he walked in. Seeing him just broke her heart and her dreams, killing her from the great disappointment.
Ironically, the news that was gently broken to her is the very news that killed her. She did not have a heart attack when she was told the news of her husband's death, but only when she discovered it was not true. I believe, after realizing she was finally free, it was the let down that caused her death.
Mrs. Mallards was very calm as she sat and thought about her situation. She sat in a "roomy armchair" looking out her window, where she watched the "new spring life" in the trees. Things are very peaceful inside her bedroom, almost heaven like. .
She realized she had no one to live for, except herself. She was no longer under her husband's control; she could spend her days as she wished. She dreamt of "all sorts of days that would be her own". This is the reason she is filled with joy.
Also, Richards, Mr. Mallard's friend seems to care for Mrs. Mallard. He took only time enough to be assured it was a true telegram. He seems sincere. He was sure to be the first there, getting her sister-Josephine, to help tell of the disaster. The story refers to him as being there, "near" her.
"She breathed a quick prayer that life might be long." Although only moments before "she had thought with a shudder that life might be long." She hopes for a long life, but as it turns out she gets an eternally long life. I believe the peaceful setting and the clearing of the cloudy skies symbolizes her coming spiritual journey.
I guess this story supports the saying, "don't count your chicks before they hatch". She should have been more like the other ladies and been unacceptable of the news until she could confirm it herself; this is what set her up for disappointment.
Eveline is so insecure about her choice for the future she is unsure what will make her happy, secure, and fearless; her father is a very intimidating man and Frank on the other hand is very loving and joyful, time is running out it's now or never for Eveline's choice to be made. ... Eveline is deathly afraid of her father. ...