Answer:
D. Passion; enthusiasm.
Step-by-step explanation:
Kate Chopin's novel "The Awakening" revolves around the dilemma of a young mother and her struggle to come to terms with life in the South. the novel presents her struggle trying to find sexual and personal freedom amidst taking care of her family, in a patriarchal society.
The word "ardor" means with great enthusiasm or devotion, passion, or energy. The word appears in the line where the narrator is talking about how Mr. Pontellier and Edna had first met and fallen in love. The speaker states that "[Mr. Pontellier] fell in love, as men are in the habit of doing, and pressed his suit with an earnestness and an ardor which left nothing to be desired." Thus, the word "ardor" most probably best means passion, enthusiasm.
Thus, the correct answer is option D.