In 'The Story of an Hour," how does the plot event of Brently Mallard's supposed death help develop the character of Mrs. Mallard?

Answer and Explanation:

"The Story of an Hour" is a short story by author Kate Chopin. Mrs. Mallard is the main character, and a great deal of the story concerns her thoughts and feelings.

Her character is quickly and deeply developed through an important event: the supposed death of her husband, Brently Mallard. Only Mrs. Mallard does not know it is just "supposed". She is told it is a sure thing that her husband has died. The news is conveyed in a most careful manner since she has a heart condition that may kill her in case she receives shocking information.

Upon locking herself up in her room to think and mourn, Mrs. Mallard's character undergoes a most amazing transformation. Unlike what anyone had expected, she realizes her husband's death has actually set her free. She is no longer someone's subservient wife. She no longer needs to ask for his opinion and to abide by his rules and decisions. She is her own person now, free to be and do whatever she likes. Her sister and friend are outside, thinking she is crying her eyes out, while Mrs. Mallard is in fact looking out the window, realizing the world has not stopped turning because of Brently's death. Life goes on, and so does she. She is the happiest she has ever been.

allusion   is the right answer