At the time, women had no say and were not allowed to work. Men made all the money, so marriage was the only option for women. Divorce was not an option because without money and a job, running away would prove futile. So when her husband dies, she can finally break away from the role she is forced to play, that of the perfect wife, and stop holding back. In fact, after a brief moment of sorrow, she is delighted with the feeling of freedom and just as she is about to open the door and leave forever, Mr. Mallard opens the door very much alive. Once all is said and done, it seems his body is giving him what his mind wants most.: