I would like to make an argument explaining the behavior of Mrs. Mallard in “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin. When Mrs. Mallard learns of her husband’s death, she is initially overwhelmed with grief but soon begins to experience a strange sensation which gives her a newfound sense of freedom and joy—a reaction that causes alarm among those around her. However, Mrs. Mallard’s joy can be understood as not only natural under the circumstances but also indicative of pent-up emotions resulting from years within an oppressive marriage where she had few opportunities for self-expression or autonomy outside its bounds. The irony of the ending is that Louise doesn’t die of joy as the doctors claim but actually from the loss of joy. Brently’s death gave her a glimpse of a new life, and when that new life is swiftly taken away, the shock and disappointment kill her.