The novel "The Stone Angel" by Margaret Lawrence can be described as a modern tragedy.

A modern tragedy is an imitation of an action that is serious, complete, and of a certain

magnitude; in a language established with each kind of artistic ornament, the several kinds being found in separate parts of the play; in the form of action, not of narrative; though pity and fear affecting the proper purgation of these emotions. The novel “The Stone Angel” by Margaret Lawrence can be described as a modern tragedy because of the tragic plot, the tragedy in a character and the specific elements of a tragedy.

The plot in tragedy is the belief that the action and the plot are the most important elements in a modern tragedy. The character is important but without a constructive plot there could be no tragedy. Firstly, the reversal of situation is a factor in the development of the plot and “The Stone Angel” happened to have a strong contrast from circumstances. In the beginning she belonged to her family, she always had a place in life until Marvin and Doris brought up the idea of an old age home. Te plot is more important in “The Stone Angel” because the events in the story contribute a lot to her unhappiness, she was not always so bitter. However she didn’t realize her bitterness until she was to be banished to an old age home. She felt like she didn’t belong anywhere; therefore, the reversal of situation is evident. Secondly, to thicken the plot there must be a scene of recognition; the main character is usually ignorant to something that has affected their life and have never been able to open up. Like when Hagar finally realized her role in John’s death. She got into an argument with him about Arlene and told her son that she didn’t want Arlene in her house. Since the death of her son John Hagar was never able to morn until one night she confessed her depression to a man she met at the cottage. Hagar exploited the scene of recognition by finally shedding tears over the death of her youngest son. Thirdly, the scene of suffering was included in the novel when Hagar felt more pain then ever at the cottage and wasn’t able to have help with anything. Then at the Hospital the pain started to be unbearable and she surrendered to her death.

Character in a Tragedy

Hagar is a good person in the scene where she discusses leaving Brampton with John. She mentions that she’s doing it for him; but later he leaves her to live with his father.

Hagar was always a good person but over the years of being overcome with pride she forgot how to show her goodness. Although, every night when she went to bed she always tried to make a goal to be less bitter to her family members.