Attempt a detailed character analysis of Hagar Shipley as it emerges in the novel, The Stone Angel
Hagar Shipley is the central character in Margaret Laurence’s novel The Stone Angel, a classic of Canadian literature. The novel tells the story of Hagar’s life from her childhood to old age, with a focus on her inner thoughts and emotions. Through her character, Laurence explores themes such as pride, aging, independence, memory, and personal growth. Hagar is a deeply complex character—strong, stubborn, proud, and vulnerable. Her life journey is both painful and moving, making her one of the most memorable female characters in modern literature.
1. Hagar’s Pride and Stubbornness
One of Hagar’s most dominant traits is her pride. Throughout her life, she refuses to show weakness or ask for help. She sees emotion as a form of weakness and struggles to express her true feelings, even to those she loves. For example, she refuses to cry when her brother dies, wearing a “black dress and veil,” trying to look strong. Her pride often leads to broken relationships, especially with her family. This pride is symbolized by the stone angel statue in the cemetery—a beautiful but cold and unmoving figure.
2. Struggles with Relationships
Hagar’s difficult nature affects her relationships. She marries Bram Shipley against her father’s wishes, but later becomes disappointed in him. Her relationship with her son John is full of love, but she cannot fully express it. With her other son, Marvin, she is critical and cold. This shows her emotional blockage. Though she deeply cares for her family, her inability to be open pushes them away. Her relationships are full of regrets and missed opportunities.
3. Search for Independence
From a young age, Hagar wants to be independent. She does not like being controlled or told what to do. Even in old age, when she is weak and ill, she refuses to be placed in a nursing home. She runs away to a deserted house to live on her own. This act, although unwise, shows her strong desire to remain free and make her own choices. Her independence is both her strength and her weakness. It gives her courage, but it also isolates her from others.
4. Aging and Facing Death
The novel explores Hagar’s experience of aging. She reflects on her past and struggles to accept her present condition. As her body weakens, she becomes more aware of her mistakes and the people she hurt. She begins to see how her pride shaped her life. In her final moments, she experiences a kind of peace and understanding. She finally lets herself cry and expresses love, showing personal growth. This journey makes her more human and relatable to the reader.
5. The Role of Memory
Much of the novel is told through Hagar’s memories. She moves back and forth between the past and the present. These memories show how deeply she holds onto her experiences and how they continue to shape her. Through her memories, readers see both her strengths and flaws. They understand why she acted the way she did and how she changed over time. Memory becomes a tool for self-reflection and healing.
6. Symbolism of the Stone Angel
The stone angel is a key symbol in the novel. It represents Hagar’s pride and emotional coldness. Just like the angel, she often appears strong and untouchable but is made of stone—unable to feel deeply or show emotion. However, by the end of the novel, Hagar begins to soften. She starts to understand herself better and express love, suggesting that even stone can crack and let in light.
Conclusion
Hagar Shipley is a rich and complex character. She is strong and independent, but also emotionally closed and lonely. Her life is filled with mistakes, pride, and missed connections, but also moments of bravery and insight. Through her journey, Margaret Laurence paints a realistic picture of a woman trying to find meaning in her life. Hagar’s story is a powerful reminder that it is never too late to grow, reflect, and change. Her character continues to touch readers with her honesty, strength, and humanity.