"The Doctor was a semi-retired doctor, resting, as they say, on his laurels. He had a reputation for wisdom rather than skill ... .and was highly sought after in matters of consultancy."(64-65) While this description defines the Doctor's role throughout the novel, it does not do him justice regarding the depth of his intuitive abilities. Dr. Mandelet was truly a healer, not of the body but of the mind. Although he is male, he does not fit the stereotype and seems to understand, although not completely, the identity conflicts that torment Edna Pontellier. At first he is portrayed as an ordinary man who hardly understands a woman's emotions. Ultimately, she realizes that the society they live in is full of stereotypes and is able to discern the negative effects that required gender roles can have on less-than-compliant individuals. He senses Edna's awakening, but her character symbolizes an anesthetic, not a cure, for his pains of bondage. When a frustrated Mr. Pontellier, Chopin's stereotypical male, visits the Doctor regar...