Hagar is to Blame for her own Misfurtune in Margaret Lawrences The Stone Angel :: essays research papers

It is impossible to avoid afflictive situations throughout an individuals lifetime, especially if they are a impression of bad luck or another combination of events beyond adepts control. Misfortune however can also be self-inflicted. This circumstance case is apparent in Margaret Lawrences The Stone Angel, a fresh in which the protagonist, Hagar Shipleys continuous misfortune is a direct essence of several of her character f equitys. An magnify sense of pride, a lack of forgiveness and empathy and an inability to communicate clearly are Hagars most orotund character flaws, and perpetually bring about misfortune.Many of Hagars relationships realize been hindered, or have eventually deteriorated as a result of her exaggerated sense of pride. Because of this her misfortune in relationships is self inflicted, as she decides consciously or unconsciously to sustain her pride rather than her relationships. When Hagar decides to marry Brampton Shipley, a serviceman thought to be unsuitable for someone of her social status, her father literally forbids her to wed. He tells Hagar that his thoughts are solely for her welfare and that to marry without a fathers harmonize is simply not done. More to spite him rather than to defend her ain conviction, Hagar says Itll be done by me. (Laurence 49). This defiant and rash remark results in the loss of her fathers relationship, and the loss of of her sound financial future, as Hagar is left no money in her fathers will. Her finish is clearly based on pride. Similar behavior is seen throughout the novel. another(prenominal) unattractive personality trait of Hagars is her insensitivity to others. Hagar consistently focuses on herself and does not empathize with others in a situation, regardless of their difficult circumstances. This is insalubrious to her relationships. Individuals would not feel as if they mattered. This lack of empathy also explains her inability to fall in new relationships. An example i s when Hagars son Marvin and daughter in law Doris, confront Hagar about their inadequate physical or emotional capabilities to finagle for her. They then suggest she move into a retirement home. After a long argument, Hagar is reduced to tears. Marvin and Doris are then distressed - Hagar simply says Good. Theyre frightened. I hope theyre scared to death. (Lawrence 77). This lack of empathy causes Hagars insensitivity to Doris even though Doris herself is not in prime physical condition.