The comparison between Edna's friends, Adéle Ratignolle and Mademoiselle Reisz, controls the way Edna sees herself as a woman. Although both friends want the best for Edna, they have opposing views on the role women should play in society. Adéle is the conformed maternal figure, while Mme. Reisz is the single artist who wouldn't dare conform to what society expects of her. Although they are different, Edna admires both of these women. Literary critic Carole Stone says, “Certainly this describes Edna's situation as she seeks validation from her two contrasting friends, Mme. Reisz and Adéle Ratignolle.” The two women inspire Edna to think and talk about things she would never have thought about before she woke up. Adéle brings out Edna's inner feelings and thoughts, reminding her at the same time of the pains of childbirth and maternal duties. She shows Edna how a woman can put aside her feelings of passion and artistry through motherhood. Chopin writes: “He continued his music because of