Escape from New Orleans

In Veblen's "Theory of the Leisure Class" he describes the concept of "conspicuous leisure". This is a form of non-productive time consumption, usually performed by women in upper middle class or upper class families, used to demonstrate station or wealth. These activities by definition produce nothing of actual value, but the results are more of a status symbol to show that one is afforded the opportunity to expend or "waste" money, resources and time in a somewhat senseless manor. Such activities may include setting up holiday decorations, edging a lawn, cleaning a house beyond what is necessary, activities that are visually pleasing but serve no practical function. This "conspicuous leisure" is often performed by servants. Activities that do serve a purpose such as washing clothes are not "conspicuous leisure".

In "The Awakening" Edna both fights against "conspicuous leisure" and succumbs to it. Previously Edna had spent every Tuesday at home, dressing "lavishly" and entertaining house guests. However she abandons this tradition instead preferring to pursue her own interests. Later when Leonce suggests that they go and buy new fixtures for their home Edna objects and says that they already live lavishly enough, so she blows him off and works on her art and then visits Adele. Edna eventually abandons the large house altogether, moving into the "pigeon house" which is small and unadorned. Whether conscious or not Edna is resisting the idea of "conspicuous leisure"  as it is but another constraint upon her that limits who she is, preventing her from defining her own identity. Edna however is not entirely able to escape from the "conspicuous leisure", as even after she moves into the "pigeon house" she still keeps servants. This shows just how deeply engraved "conspicuous leisure" is in society.