A STUDY OF L
AURA’S CHANGING CHARACTER
IN
ANGELA LAMBERT
’S
THE CONSTANT MISTRESS
THESIS
Submitted As Partial Fulfillment of Requirements for the Sarjana Degree at English Department Faculty of Letters and Humanities State Islamic
University of Sunan Ampel Surabaya
Dewi Aminatun Najah Reg. Number: A73213084
ENGLISH DEPARTMENT
FACULTY OF LETTERS AND HUMANITIES
ABSTRACT
Najah, Dewi Aminatun. 2017. A Study of Laura’s Changing Character In Angela Lambert’s The Constant Mistress. English Department. Faculty of Letters
and Humanities. State Islamic University Sunan Ampel Surabaya.
The Advisor: Wahju Kusumajanti, M.Hum
This thesis tries to analyze Angela Lambert’s novel entitled The Constant Mistress. This thesis focuses on the main character Laura King’s life in the novel and how it can change her character. This thesis uses New Criticism theory and focuses to the plot and character and characterization to analyze Laura’s changing character. This thesis is descriptive analytic. It uses library based to collects the books, journals, and internet source relates to this study. The purpose of this thesis is to find Laura’s changing character from life events that involved an emotional and respond.The result is Laura has a round character because in the story presented she has variety of behavior or action in every event. She is type of dynamic. The developing character can be seen by how character undergoes the change and develop of events in the plot. It can be affected to the psyche and cause the change of character. This research concludes that the sad events of someone’s life influence the person’s emotion and respond in present situation can change their character in the future.
INTISARI
Najah, Dewi Aminatun. 2017. A Study of Laura’s Changing Character in Angela Lambert’s The Constant Mistress.Sastra Inggris. Fakultas Adab dan
Humaniora. UIN Sunan Ampel Surabaya
The Advisor: Wahju Kusumajanti, M.Hum
Skripsi ini mencoba menganalisa novel Angela Lambert berjudul The Constant Mistress. Skripsi ini berfokus pada karakter utama kehidupan Laura King dalam novel dan bagaimana bisa mengubah karakternya. Skripsi ini menggunakan New Criticism dan berfokus pada plot dan karakter dan karakterisasi untuk menganalisa karakter Laura yang berubah. Skripsi ini bersifat deskriptif analitik. Menggunakan perpustakaan berbasis pengumpulan buku, jurnal, dan sumber internet berkaitan dengan penelitian ini. Tujuan dari tesis ini adalah untuk menemukan karakter Laura yang berubah dari peristiwa kehidupan yang melibatkan emosi dan respons.Hasilnya adalah Laura memiliki karakter bulat karena dalam ceritanya dipaparkan dia memiliki beragam tingkah laku atau tindakan di setiap acara. Dia tipe dinamis. Karakter yang berkembang dapat dilihat dari bagaimana karakter mengalami perubahan dan perkembangan kejadian dalam plot. Hal ini dapat mempengaruhi jiwa dan menyebabkan perubahan karakter. Penelitian ini menyimpulkan bahwa kejadian menyedihkan dari kehidupan seseorang mempengaruhi emosi dan respons dalam situasi sekarang dapat mengubah karakter mereka di masa depan.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Inside Cover Page………...i
Inside Title Page………ii
Declaration Page………...iii
Thesis Advisor’s Approval Sheet……….iv
Thesis Examiner’s Approval Sheet………...v
Motto………....vi
Dedication Page ………..vii
Acknowledgement………..viii
Table of Content………..………..……...ix
Abstract……...……….………...……..x
Intisari……….………..…...….xi
CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background of the Study……….1
1.2 Statement of The Problem………5
1.3 Objective of the Study………..5
1.4 Scope and Limitation………5
1.5 Significant of The Study………...5
1.6 Method of The Study………...……….6
1.6.1 Data Source………...6
CHAPTER 2 LITERARY REVIEW
2.1 New Criticism ……….8
2.1.1 Plot………9
2.1.1.1 Beginning……….………11
2.1.1.2 Complication………11
2.1.1.3 Climax……….……….12
2.1.1.4 Denouement………12
2.1.2 Character and Characterization 2.1.2.1 Character………..12
2.1.2.1.1 Major and Minor Character………..……….13
2.1.2.1.2 Flat and Round Character……….……….……13
2.1.2.1.3 Static and Dynamic Character……….……….….14
2.1.2.2 Characterization 2.1.2.2.1 Personal Trait……….………15
2.1.2.2.2 Speech………..……….15
2.1.2.2.3 Self Reaction ……….………16
2.1.2.2.4. Other Reaction……….….……….16
2.1.2.2.5 Thoughts………...………..16
2.1.2.2.6 Behavior……...………..……….16
2.1.2.2.7 Consciousness………...17
2.2 The Relation between Plot and Character………..….17
2.3 Review of Related Studies………..……18
CHAPTER 3 3.1 Plot 3.1.1 Exposition………...22
3.1.2 Complication……….………..24
3.1.3 Climax……….………30
3.1.4 Denouement ………...33
3.2 Laura’s Changing Character from the Plot 3.2.1 Laura is a Pathetic woman in Exposition.….………..36
3.2.2 Laura is Stubborn and Liar in Complication………..………….39
3.2.3 Laura Changed to be Honest in Climax………...……...42
3.2.4 Laura became a Good Person in Denouement……….………..…….45
CHAPTER 4 CONCLUSION………..……….…….46
WORK CITED………..………...48
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CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION
1.1.Background of The Study
In eighteenth century, literature is intended to all kinds of writing, it is including a philosophy, an essays, history, and also letters, dramas, prose, and
poems (Sahal 3). Carter said, the meaning of ‘literature’ has changed time after time (17). According to Wellek and Warren, term of literature seem to give a best limit to the art of literature, that is, to imaginative literature (13). Imaginative
literature is an artistic of life imitation. Among the arts, literature, specifically seems also to claim ‘truth’ through the view of life which every artistically
coherent work posses (25).
The development of the significant increase of literature seen by the era of twentieth century which called modernism era. In twentieth century defines
literature as the new style by the authorship that seek of realism. Literary works should be reality, and literary works developed by the various genres, including
written literary works such as poetry, story and drama (Kleden 7).
Today, literature is something that deals with creative imaginative writing
(Eagleton 15). Wellek and Warren argued, the elements of literary works can be classified become unsure of form and element of content. Unsure of form is all of the linguistics elements that is used to get an ideas to the element fact of the story,
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People thought most of the literature is a fiction and non-fiction. Fiction is a kind of narrative literature such as a verse or prose wrote by the author based on
the events that in fact are not really happened, a fiction is a narrative form by prose (Abrams 94). Fiction tells about the problems of human life in its interaction
with the environment and interaction to the God. It also results of the dialogue, and the author reaction to the environment and life experiences. The term and the notion of fiction deliberate limited to literary works in prose, prose narrative, or
narrative text (Wellek & Waren 19).According to Abrams, the first fiction is suggested in narrative prose, which in this case is novel and short story, even then
fiction is considered synonymous with the novel (21).
As a literary genre, a fictional work contains the elements includes; the authors, the content creation, the writing language, and the intrinsic elements
(Aminuddin 66). Novel as a literary fiction offers the world of idealized model of life, the world of imaginations are built through intrinsic elements such as events,
plot, character and characterization, background, point of view and others. Intrinsic element is a tool to build up a literary works itself.
Kennedy and Gioia stated, in English and America, there are two works in
modern literary fiction; novel and short story (4). The term novel is one of literary work kind of fiction that is not too long and not too short. There are two kinds of
novel; serious novel and popular novel. A serious novel is a novel which is present about the universal of a real life. Beside it gives interesting side, a serious novel also give a valuable experiences to the readers. At the least, it also urge the
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is a novel conveyed the story and to give an interesting points from the story inside (Stanton 2). From novel people can learn many things that relate to the life
because it depicted segments of life (qtd in Diaz 2). According to Murphy, a good novel contained of intrinsic elements, and also tells about the reflection of real life; sorrow, joy, hope, life problems, relationship, a person’s struggle,
disappointment, success, dream, humor and others (133). Because it takes from the ideas of human based on imaginations of what people have in mind, which is
to explore the things in life (Wellek & Warren 163).
Based on the explanation above, one of the intrinsic elements appears in
the novel is character. Character has an important point in literary work especially novel. The fittingness issues of the characters are often associated with human everyday life reality. A character can be said to be reasonable and relevant if it
reflects the real life. Characters that appear in fiction can influence the plot. In this case, the plot is just a means to understand the journey of a character. Or to show
person’s identity and life, then a character needs to be plotted to connecting the
reflection of life. Characterizations and plot are two facts that influence the story each other. Plot is what characters do and befall. The fictional characters have
certain personality traits that are owned by real people from real life even if it only involves several aspects (Kenny 25)
One of novels that is written by Angela Lambert is The Constant Mistress released in 1994. Angela Lambert was born in April 14 1940 – September 2007 with complete name of Angela Maria Lambert. She is British writer and
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fiction, and nine fiction. She published her first book about fiction, Unquiet Souls, in 1984. While she was experimenting with fiction at the time, it was social
history that came first. In 1939 she wrote the second novel The Last Season of Peace, in 1989 she published her novel entitled of Love Among the Single
Classes. Lambert's next two novels, No Talking After Lights (1990) and A Rather
English Marriage (1992).
The interesting point in The Constant Mistress that the researcher going to
analyze is tells about Laura King, the main character who suffered from Hepatitis C that caused her death. She only has a year to live. In short, something has
changed rapidly and she tries what the things that can be perfected from the past, if possible all the things should improve when the time of death has arrived and take her away.
There are two reasons why the researcher is interesting to analyze the changing character of Laura. First is about the mixed plot that the author presents to give the reader such a supposition to find out the alteration of somebody’s
character. Second, is about the researcher want to find out how the events of life and experiences of human can modify the character of themselves.
Based on explanation above, the researcher wants to analyze how the plot reveal the changing character of Laura King. New Criticism is a fixed theory to
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1.2.Statement of Problem
Based on the background of the study explained above, the researcher is
interested in analyzing the problems, which are formulated as follows: 1. How is plot described in the novel?
2. How does the plot convey Laura’s changing character?
1.3.Objective of Study
In accordance with the statement of the problems, this study has an
objectives that can be stated as follows: 1. To describe the plot in the novel.
2. To find out Laura’s changing character from the plot description.
1.4.Scope and Limitation
To avoid extensive discussion, this study will be limited on the novel The
Constant Mistress written by Angela Lambert. This study focuses on the plot
represented in the novel. To answer problems of statement above, Laura King
characterization also becomes the most important point to analyze. The scope of this study is focuses on the text to find intrinsic element especially on the plot and characterization. Within this study, the researcher will use Angela Lambert’s The
Constant Mistress which originally published by Black Swan edition 1998.
1.5.Significant of The Study
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research will be useful to the students of literature. Also the researcher divides the significant of study into two categories; theoretically and practically categories.
Theoretically, the results of this study is to contribute and to give
knowledge to the study and analysis of the intrinsic element especially in the New Criticism in Angela Lambert's The Constant Mistress. Practically, the researcher
also expects that the result of this study will give an inspiration to students, especially students of English Letters Department of State Islamic University of
Sunan Ampel Surabaya. Also, the researcher hopes that this study can be a helpful reference for the other or people who are mostly interested in literature, this
research could be comparison for the other researchers even this analysis can be debatable to be more perfect using the other theory based on New Criticism. And the researcher hope this study can be a reference for other helpful writer who are
interesting in conducting future research on analyzing Angela Lambert' s The Constant Mistress.
1.6.Method of Study
To conduct the analyze and in order to answer the research problems. To give explains toward the analysis process, the researcher will perform the
descriptive-qualitative method. It uses a library based. It mean the researcher analyze the data from words and sentences.
1.6.1 Data Source
The researcher has the primary and secondary data source conducting this study. In this research, the primary source is from novel The Constant
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resource, journals, some critical works that concern with the novel and explanation about New Criticism theory.
1.6.2 Data Collection
In collecting data for the research which based on the qualitative method,
the research follows the following steps:
1. Close-reading the novel Angela Lambert’s The Constant Mistress to get the complete, accurate data and well understanding in the
whole story.
2. Re-reading the novel about many times and collect the data from
the text related to the statements problem.
3. Finding the structure of the plot form appear in the novel.
4. Selecting related references that can support data of the research.
1.6.3 Data Analysis
1. Analyzing some data that have been collected based on the topic
to the research problem.
2. Classifying the data based on the objective of study. 3. Identifying and analyzing the structure of the plot.
4. Analyzing the changing character of Laura that conveyed by the plot.
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CHAPTER II LITERARY REVIEW
This chapter focuses on the discussion of the theory which is going to be
used inthis study. Conducting with research questions, because this study
analyzing the plot, character and characterization, New Criticism is a fixed theory
the researcher used to this research.
2.1 New Criticism
The first name of „New Criticism‟ was created by John Crowe Ronsom,
the man well-known as the „philosopher General of the New Criticism‟
(Jancovich11). Ronsom‟s book The New Criticism has stated that students of the
future must be permitted to study literature (Lodge 230). When studying
Literature, students can learn that language can be used for specific and aesthetic purposes.
New Criticism focuses on the close reading or close analysis of a text. It is what New Criticism introduced and it is a fundamental tool in today‟s modern
literary criticism. This theory has the concepts concern to the importance of textual proof to support the reading of literature (Tyson 117). It emphasisto the
formal structure of literary works, and there is not involving about author‟s life and social reaction out of the literary works (Sharma 702).New Criticism has been considered a school of the formalist movement and both are closely associated
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involved its structure, including syntax, figures of speech, and so one. In this way, a New Critic tries to verify the “formal elements” of the text, such as
characterization, setting of time and place, point of view, plot, images, metaphors and symbols to interpret the text and find the theme. New Critics primarily
concerned with the language (verbal meaning) and the organization (overall structure) of a text. This theory is searching for meaning in the structure of the text. It can be found by examines the text by the close reading and analyzing the
formal elements (elements that form the text) within the text (Sharma
702-703).New Criticism also examine all the evidence provided by the language of the
text itself is including its images, symbols, metaphors, rhyme, meter, point of view, setting, characterization, plot and so forth (Tyson199).
New Criticism claim the text itself is the only source that a critic should
focus on, so text as the only reference.It also deals with how a work can be read objectively and accurately by examining the structure and form (Sharma 709).
Since New Criticism is concerns to the internal aspect of the text, it is built by intrinsic elements which are interrelated each other to build the structure of the text itself (qtd in Setiawati 4). Analysis the text within intrinsic element is only
focus on the text itself without looking out the other aspect (Robert 11).
Within this study, the researcher analyzing the intrinsic elements of novel
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2.1.1 Plot
Plot has an important role in the story because Stanton argued that plot is
the backbone of whole the sequence in story (13). To understanding the plot, some theorist explained what is the meaning of plot. In general description, plot is the
storyline. Nurgiyantoro stated plot is an important intrinsic element in the fiction. The explication of the plot means the clarity of the story (110). While, Kenny said plot is an event present in a story since the author arranges it by basis of cause and
effect (14). According to Froster, plot is an event which has an emphasis on causal relationships (93). Plots in fiction are structures of events, as seen in the sorting
and presentation of events to achieve emotional effects (Abrams 13).
The function of plot is to shows the story line and to understanding the reader while reading a literary works such as novel and short story (Qtd in Diaz
14). Plot has its own laws to get its role in the story, it must has a true beginning, middle and end. It also presents the interesting point such as make the readers feel
surprise, emotional, curiosity, and fear. Beside that, the movement of plot from the beginning until the end must be logically, rational, and plausible (Murphy 14-15).
A story can be called plausible if the characters and the world depicted in the story can be imagined by the reader (Stanton 13). The plausibility of the plot
means can be understood by readers. The plausibility relate to the life reality, its means something exist and happen in real life. If plot is plausible, so it easy to make it sense in the reader‟s though. If the characters are expressed consistently,
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the actions and behavior in accordance with the way of thinking and attitude, it makes the reader easy to imagine. That is what plausible means. But, the
plausibility of the story does not mean merely a mere imitation of reality, but rather because it has the coherence of life experience from which it originally
appears to be coherent and becomes a make sense experience if intertwined in the plot structure (Kenny 22).
The formula of plot the researcher apply in this study came from
Abram.The plot structure is beginning, complication, climax, and ending (Abrams 161).
2.1.1.1Beginning/ Exposition
Beginning also called exposition of story. It is the first part to make the readers know about the beginning situation or acts present in the story. It is the
necessary thing to the readers because it involved a first understanding. This part commonly provide of the introduction of the characters, a sketch of the
background and the explanation about situation (Abrams 161).
While, Nurgiyantoro has stated, this section contain introduction of
background situation and character. This stage functioned as an initial information
giver, and others to compare the story told in the next stage (150).
2.1.1.2Complication
From the exposition move to continued part called complication or rising action. Based on Abrams, this section usually displays an introduction of some difficult thing and problems that character faced. This situation keeps on
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Dramatic events increase intensify and become the core of the ever-increasing and tense the story, conflict, clash of interests, problems, and figures leading to climax
increasingly unavoidable.
2.1.1.3Climax
In this part, climax also called the peak of the story problem. The
conflicts that occur reach to the peak. Climax in the story experienced by the main character burdened by the main problem. Beside, the highest point from the
actions or the greatest expectancy and the climax is the result from cumulative effect of the previous incidents (Robert and Jacob 101).
2.1.1.4Denouement
The ending of the story in plot structure in Abram is also called
resolution and ending. The conflicts that have reached the climax are settled, the
tension is relaxed. Other possible conflicts or sub-conflict, or additional conflict if any, are also given a way out and the story is terminated. This stage is the closing
stage of the entire plot structure above. According to Jacob and Robert, the ending part of plot is the final part that is in a story. The settlement of the previous
conflict has already been addressed (102).
2.1.2 Character and Characterization 2.1.2.1Character
The term „character‟ is refers to the figures that exist in the story. Jones
argued, character is a clear description of a person featured in the story (33). A character is a person that displayed in narrative story that can be indicated by
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(Abrams 20). Mason states, character must be believable and consistent. However, character should be imitated to the real person in daily life and also be natural and
has the nature of lifelikeness (9).
2.1.2.1.1 Major and Minor Character
Based on the important views, the basic character divided in two types. Those are major and minor. Major character is more knows as main character, it plays the biggest role because it more appeared in the whole of the
story and much involved in the events presented in the story which appear in directly and indirectly ways. In other hand, minor character is character that is
present to be supported the main character. The role of minor character is less than the main character because it is not much involved to the events in the story (Abrams 20).
2.1.2.1.2 Flat and Round Character
The categorization of character divided into flats and round character
and it must be preceded by the analysis of characterization. After the description of the attribution is obtained, we can categorize the flat and round (Froster 75). Flat character is a character which has only one characterizationof a certain
personality. Flat character usually appear in the story by not much involve the side of flat character‟s life. It usually expressed with a monotonous character.For
example, „he was a yield toward fate‟. While, round character is complex. Round character can display a variety of behaviors. The round character resembles real human life, because in addition to having various possibilities of attitude and
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2.1.2.1.3 Static and Dynamic Character
The criteria for the inclusion of characters in a story can be
dividedinto static character and dynamic character. According to Altenbernd & Lewis, static character essentially person in the story who have not experienced to
change or develop as an effect of events that occurred. Static character has less involved and unaffected for the environmental changes that occur because of the influence of human relationships. Also, a static character has a fixed relative
characterand do not develop from the beginning to the end of a story (58).On the other hand, a dynamic character undergoes the changes and develop of events in
the plot. The developingcharacter can be seen by how character has an interaction with the environment that will all influence the attitude and behavior. It can be effected to the psyche and cause the changes and developments in attitude,
behavior and characterization (Alternbernd & Lewis 58).
2.1.2.2Characterization
Beside, the characterization is the author‟s manner to display the
character in the story. The term of characterization is more widely from the meaning of character itself because the characterization involved the problem of the character such as who is the character, how is the character‟s characterization,
and how it can give clearly visualized toward the readers to understanding the
story (Alternbernd & Lewis 58).
However, character can make a story reliable and becomes an interesting point to discuss. In order to build a full and clearly portrait of the character
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very important point since the readers can explore the novel by pay attention on the character‟s actions, how is character‟s speech, the action and the comment of
the other character to understand well about the idea of the story (Holman2). There are some methods to define characterization. Altenbern & Lewis
presents a characterization of the character in the novel as below.
2.1.2.2.1 Personal Trait
This technique can be described by direct description or explanation.
Not convoluted, but the author describes just like that and immediately accompanied by the character's character through attitude, behavior, or even
physical characteristics such as the body, the skin color, the thing character like and dislike, big or small, and some else (Altenbern & Lewis 56).
2.1.2.2.2 Speech
Based on Altenbern & Lewis understanding about this speech technique, conversations conducted by the character is usually also intended to
describe the character of the person concerned. The form of conversation in a work of fiction, especially novel, generally present too much. But not all conversations reflect the character's stance. What is meant in this speech
technique is a good conversation, effective, more functional. That is to shows the development of the plot and also determined the identity of the characters. The
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opinion about the character intended. From this manner, the readers can get information to understanding the characteristic of the character (21).
2.1.2.2.3 Self Reaction
The author gives reaction to the clue what a characteristic character‟s
has by describing how the other character reacts and responds to various situation and condition in the events. Self reaction is the reaction of a character to an event, the problems, the circumstances, the words, the attitude, the behavior of others,
and the form of the stimulation of the person's self. How the character's reaction to these things can be viewed as a form of appearance that reflects the nature of his
selfhood.
2.1.2.2.4 Other Reaction
Other reaction is the reaction of another character who is intended as a
reaction given by other figures to the main character, or figures studied about character‟s self, in the form of views, opinions, attitudes, comments and others,
the reaction of other figures is also a characterization technique to inform the character to the readers.
2.1.2.2.5 Thoughts
In this technique, the person‟scharacter can be seen from how the circumstances and the way of their mind and feelings. What goes through their
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2.1.2.2.6 Behavior
If speech technique is meant to designate verbal behavior in the words
of the characters, the technique of behavior refers to nonverbal action. Physical activity includes behavior and in many ways is seen as the nature and attitude that
reflects the character's characterization.
2.1.2.2.7 Consciousness
However, consciousness is a narrative technique that seeks to capture
the views and streams of the mental processes of the personage, in which the sensory responses are mixed with the consciousness and awareness of the
thoughts of feelings, memories, and expectations. This technique reveals the process of inner life. This technique is also often equated with inner monologues. It is useful for knowing character‟s characterization through thoughts, emotions,
passions, responses, past life and memories (Abrams 187).
2.1.2.2.8 Background Description
The background around the character will appropriately support the characterization technique even though the background itself is the outer part of the characterization. However, this technique also serves as a situation against a
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2.2 The Relationship between Plot and Character
Plot can be manifested through the acts, behaviors and attitudes of the
main characters in the story in way of verbally or nonverbally.Plot itself is a reflection or can be interpreted as a way of behavior of the characters in the act of
thinking, feeling and behave in face up the various problems of life. Events, deeds of the behavior of human life in the story can be plot if it is contains elements of conflict, interrelated, and most importantly is interesting to tell and because
between the plot and the characters in the story is dramatic (Froster 94). As well as the plot, character also has a important role in the prose. However, plot may
seen as the backbone of the story itself, but the question is, who is in the story through the plot, who is do the acts and what happen with the actor in events that described in the plot. But, it does not mean plot can be ignored because clarity
about characters and characterizations in many ways depends on the plot (Stanton 17).
Plot is a carefully though-out plan in which all the event, all the action and reaction of the characters, contribute toward the forward movement of the story (Murphy134). So, it is clear between character and plot are cannot stand
alone without support each other. However, plot shows the movement of the events that involved so much roles of the character in the story. The character and
every action that done by character created a plot in the story.Therefore, from the plot also, the intrinsic elements in the novel can appeared such as a theme, and does not rule out the possibility find the changing character of the figure in the
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2.3 Review of Related Studies
There are some graduating papers that has similar examining with this
study:
The first paper is entitled “An Analysis of Plot and Characterization in
Rusli‟s Siti Nurbaya Kasih tak Sampai” written by Wisnu Maulana Syahrir
(2013), the student of English Letters in Wijaya Putra University of Surabaya. He analyzed the characters of Siti Nurbaya and Samsul Bahkri. He also analyzed the
plot to know how is the story line presented in the novel. This paper using New Criticism in analyzing this case. However, the researcher only focuses on the
finding the most important character involved in Kasih Tak Sampai novel by Rusli and how plot develops in the story.
The second paper is came from UIN SunanAmpel Surabaya entitled “Tris’s Journey To Reveal The Truth Of Divergent Characterization In Veronica
Roth’s Insurgent Novel: New Criticism Studywritten by Niyar Andria Risma
(2016). The student in English Department.Faculty of Letters and Humanities. In her research, the objectives of the study are to describe the journey of Tris in novel and to know the goals of Tris journey. This study identifies the reasons why
Tris did the journey and the process that she had been through in order to find truly Divergent characterization.The method that is used in this study is
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books, journal, and internet sources having related with this analysis. According to New Criticism, the appropriate method that used in this study is close reading.
Both of them have similar with this research because using New
Criticism as the primary theory and focuses on the main character as a subject to
analyze. Plot also has an important point to analyze because it defines the
interesting point in the research. The differential both of them toward this research is they only used plot to know the story lines and to know the journey of the character‟s life. But, this research use plot to reveal the changing character.
The third graduating paper that relates to the subject of this research is
written by Michael Rigel Diaz (2013) with the title of his paper“Theme Revealed from the Character and Plot in Cormac McCarty’s The Road “. He is the student
in Sanata Dharma University Yogyakarta. Although in his research is concerned
to reveal the theme, his paper also examines the main character of the novel, and analyzing the plot develops by seen the structure in the beginning, middle and
end. This study also used New Criticism theory to analyze and to finding how plot and character depicted the theme.
Another paper that relates to this case of study is a journal written by
WahyuSetiawati (2016). Her paper is to fulfillment of the requirements for the final test of last year in Mataram University. She is student in English Education
Program Language and Art Department Faculty Of Teacher Training and Education. This thesis entitled “The Analysis of Intrinsic Elements in The Little Prince; A Novel by Antoine De Saint Exupery”. This research is aimed at
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research use New Criticism to dealing with the finding of plot, character, tone, style, setting and characterization. In addition, the researcher also found the way
those intrinsic elements are inter-related to one another.
Actually, this study is similar to the both above that is focuses on finding
the intrinsic element. The same thing that makes this study relates each other is using New Criticism theory to analyze the study. What makes this study different from the other above is the involvement of another intrinsic element in the
research not only focuses on two intrinsic elements that are about character and plot. However, this study will examine the main changing character from plot
develops using New Criticism theory. Therefore, it will be clear how plot and character has interrelates each other to describe how the main character is characterized and to find how person‟s character can change by the plot in some
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CHAPTER III
LAURA’S CHANGING CHARACTER IN ANGELA LAMBERT’S THE
CONSTANT MISSTRES
In this chapter, the researcher focuses on analyzing the data. It will answer the research problems. The analysis is grouped into two parts. The first part, the
researcher will analyze the plot. Plot is used to find the sequence of the story .The second part, after knowing the plot in the story, the researcher will analyze the changing character of Laura as the main character in the novel. In analyze the
changing character of Laura, the researcher relies on the characterization of Alterbern and Lewis that have been described in chapter two, the data of plot is
based on the researcher found that described above of a novel The Constant Mistress plot understanding.
3. 1. Plot
3.1.1.Exposition
The exposition of The Constant Mistress presents the main character
named Laura King. The woman aged forty four which has a successful carrier in business and also with men. Although never married yet, she has been an active
and emotionally fulfilled life.
Laura King was forty-four when she was told that she had only about a year to live: two at the most. Her existence had provided lavish
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In that time, in aged forty four she suffered of hepatitis C. the Moreover,
Laura’s condition had first made itself known before Christmas. Her face looked
pale, her body felt sick and weird. It is culminated, where her pulse bounced fast. She thinks it is only because a tire condition of business effect, stress and
overwork. She came to the doctor to get the information about what happened to her body.
For a few days she had felt extreme weakness and exhaustion. (Lambert 16)
She consulted to a doctor to find out what happened to her health. Laura
checked up in the hospital and stay of few days in there. From the diagnosis, Laura was forced to get bed rest in the hospital to find out the illness result.
Rafe’s doctor has been summoned. He sped to her side, lifted her eyelids, felt her pulse, took her blood pressure, tested her hemoglobin level. (Lambert 16)
Her doctor consultant, Mrs Ripa informed the diagnosis about her illness. She had convinced her that there was no a mistake in the diagnosis. She also
informed clearly that the test result is about the fixed diagnose that Laura has suffered hepatitis C. And that time, Mrs Ripa repeatedly said and make it sure
about it.
‘I have discussed your case with my colleagues and—as you know—we
analyzed two spare batches of blood samples as well as a PCR, a liver
biopsy and antibody test…. I sent the second sample to a senior colleague
at another hospital; a world expert. He confirm my diagnosis.’ (Lambert 17)
‘… the whole truth. Hepatitis C has invaded your liver,’ she said. (Lambert
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The result of her illness is clearly that she suffered Hepatitis C. Mrs Ripa noted the fact in her folder and generally she gave her patient time to get used to
the idea of their on imminent death, allowing the truth to sink in gradually. But she recognized to Laura a brave and kindred spirit, able to bear life’s realities
head-on. She described to Laura a briefly information about hepatitis C and what kind of virus that caused it and the solution for get a well condition.
‘At worst, you have about a year to live. At best, two or even three.’ (Lambert 18)
The quotation above, told that the effect of Laura illness is caused the
death. The exposition of The Constant Mistress is summarized that Laura suffered from hepatitis C and only has a year to live.
3.1.2. Complication
The complication in The Constant Mistress found in some stage which will taper to the climax. If in exposition told about Laura as the main character
who is suffered hepatitis C and caused her death, in complication continued with she is shocked and does not believe of her illness. The doctor gave the suggestion a liver transplant to her to get recovery herself but she refused it. To spend a year
time left in her life, she has a privately choose what she want to do.
‘Could there be a mistake?’ she asked to her consultant, Mrs Ripa.
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The quotation above is defined that she is shocked and does not believe what happened to her health since she got the information about hepatitis C that
caused her only has a year to live, at best two or three years if she did a liver transplant. She thinks it is very terrific news means that she has no longer time to
spend with because hepatitis C invaded her liver and she cannot refused anything about this truth.
‘Believe me, Miss King, I would not be telling you unless I were sure,’
Mrs Ripa answered… because it is fairly rare, I sent the second sample to
a senior collegue at another hospital; a world expert…’
‘No, but I’m very busy,’ Laura said. ‘When I felt tired or unwell, I assumed it was due to the stress of work.’ (Lambert 17)
For clearly information that Laura should belief it, MrsRipa explained that
the result is corrected. There is nothing mistaken test about Laura’s diagnosis. Only one thing that can help her, do a liver transplant. But unfortunately, she
refused it.
At worst, you have about a year to live. At best, two or even three unless we arrange a liver transplant—which is something you should start considering now.... (Lambert 18)
The doctor suggested a solution to Laura which is better she take a liver
transplant, from liver transplant at least she can live two or three years. But, if Laura did nothing she only has a year left to live. Unfortunately Laura refused what the doctor’s said although this suggestion helps her life.
I definitely don’t want a transplant… nor will I change my mind.…for the
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From this quotation, Laura refused her doctor suggestion. She has a choice to her life privately. She does not want anything relate to her recovery except
believes on the death. She prefers to it and asks to the doctor if she die, when. Liver transplant is not the best solution for her, because she thinks that there are
so many people needs it rather than herself. The discovery of she was going to die so soon made her feel cheated. She failed and struggled against the idea that the rest of her life has to be compressed into so short a space of time.
Laura’s conscious mind—controlled, rational, considerate—had responded
bravely and even humorously to the news. (Lambert 19)
Finally, after she has sufficient to does not belief the news and shocked for the first time, Laura thinks again that there is no chose to do something except she received it with open minded, sincere, and try to be composed. Because she does
not wants a liver transplant, the only thing left is only a limit time to spend during a year to her life. She also decided about the news that must be acceptance
because it is a life. Her life, her rules and her chose. She responded a humorously to the news and even bravely because she already believe that the result is correct and must to do and endure this event.
…there aren’t a lot of spare lives around, or surgeons that good. It should
go to a better person than me. Someone whose children need them… I don’t deserve it. (Lambert 26)
From this case indicate she deserves to die and believe that she will die.
She is not angry in her bad condition, she realize and accept it even if she is not exited. She determined herself that she does not more better to receive a liver
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‘My end the word I prefer is ‘death’ but I have already discovered that few people are comfortable with it… ‘ (Lambert 41)
Laura had established herself that she was more resigned to her life and surrendered to her death. From here, Laura seems that she has no chance of spirit
in her life. She feel need someone to share it. She rang Constance and told about her condition.
‘Oh, Constance, you know I had those test repeated? Well, it’s bad news…
I’m going to dies—soon—oh, Coco, heavens, I can’t believe it—I’m
going to die.’
‘Laura, no!now, look, I’ll come up right away. I was just about to go to
the library. I’ll cancel and drive up. Be with you in an hour. Hang on me. Oh sweetheart, this is awful!’
‘Coco, don’t come. Don’t. I’ve got masses of calls to make: work and everything. People. Should I ring mother?’
‘Do you want me too? Oh let me come and be with you.’
No, Laura thought, my sister doesn’t deserve this and I have no right to
impose on her. She will try to look on the bright side, suggest a second opinion, or she will insist I move in her to be looked after. I don’t want any of that. (Lambert 22)
Laura refused an effort of her sister to make her better and save. Constance try to do something to helps her. Suggest that Laura must be in best hospital.
Laura lived alone and only apart. Her mother is in Miami, and her sister has her own house with three children. From this conversation on the telephone,
Constance informed her mother in Miami about what happened to Laura. And also, her mother will take Laura to her home and suggest that in there Laura get a best hospital about a liver problem but she refused it all. Constance informed the
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‘Conce told me you were dying.’ He said. ‘I could not believe it. I had to come and see for myself. But it is true.’
‘yes, as you see, it is true.’
They looked at each other from beneath their eyes brows, hardly wanting to look openly, such was the contrast between their present hollowed faces and the wanton young features of the past. (Lambert 286)
Paul and Laura—who had been in adultery twelve years ago, resumed their story quietly. Since Paul came to visit, then they became more intent again in communication. They share everything about their life since the day they decided
to end their relationship. The proof is that Paul came to Laura more from that day. From that event, Paul stayed for Laura to make her sleep well under his arm. Paul
also does not refuse anything about what is Laura asked to him.
She did not plan the words or frame them but her voice said, ‘Hold me, Paul!’
He lurched from the chair, knelt at her feet, clutched her knees. She sat forward, laid her head on his shoulder, put her arms round him and they held each other. (Lambert 287)
Indeed, Constance does not know yet about their cheat that caused Paul left her. Laura never told her sister about her crime and for now Constance still
believed Paul other lover is another girl, not her sibling, Laura. Twelve years ago, because this condition, Laura chose to repeated again.
‘You must never tell her—not in anger, revenge, weakness: you must never, never confess. Paul! Do you swear to me?’
‘I promise. Never.’
‘And nor will I. I swear to you. Nor will ever tell anyone else.’ (Lambert
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When the secret of their adultery is closed down by their appointment, Laura began to talk confidently with her sister, Constance, and seems like there is
nothing important to shows her sister except being a loyal sibling in Constance’s suffer about Paul left her and make her sister to be a single mother.
‘Paul’s left me,’ she said, dry-eyed.
‘I know,’ Laura answered.
‘For some reason he can’t live with her… oh Laura he is my husband— their father—and we love him so much! How can we live without him? What am I to do?’
‘Wait a bit. Oh, darling… oh, Conce, I hate to see you suffer.’ (Lambert
294)
Laura pretends to be a sister who cares deeply about her sibling. In fact, Laura always took Constance's place when Constance cried because of Paul or
because she was so stressed. Laura would not refuse if asked to accompany Constance. Laura tried to calm her sister down and said everything would be all
right, about the children, Constance did not have to worry about them.
Laura takes Paul in her home. Sleep with her and making a love in night together. It been the first repeated since nowadays they back in relationship. Laura
told Paul if he is only the man in her life. She is open minded to accept Paul again because that reason, the other is because desire and Laura happy to did everything
with Paul. Even if going to bed together again.
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3.1.3. Climax
The climax is when Constance knows if the girl Paul’s other lover is her
sister, while Laura is in hospital before her death. It is difficult condition between them because Constance knows if Laura cheated Paul and Laura in bad situation
because she must rest for her illness which is increasingly leading to her death. In this event, Paul also was in incident last night, he felt from rooftop and he has informed was died. Constance is the first person came to Laura to give that
information, Constance was thought that Paul commit to suicide because he depressed from love affair. In addition, Constance at the same time cannot accept
what Laura’s done because the affair has caused its destruction in the past. For so
long time Constance tried to find who is the girl caused Paul left her and their children. Their marriage became messy because the affair that Paul did to her. She
never realized if Laura is a woman that very crime to herself as a sibling because she take off Paul in Constance’s life. She never predicted it because Laura always
gave attention to her since Paul left her alone and never come back again.
For the first day since Paul gone, Laura is the only people Constance share about her marriage problem, and for this, Laura becomes an understanding to her
for totally. Even if Constance cried, Laura is always served a time to be available to her, beside her and tries to give her a peaceful place to share all of her suffers.
Now, Laura in the hospital because she feels she will die. The climax start when Constance come to her in the hospital to keep her company, but Constance inform that Paul died because he felt from the five floor top roof in his friend house last
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‘It was you, Laura! You were the woman he never named. Paul’s secret.
All that time it was you. Dear God!’ (Lambert 341)
After Constance knows, she cannot forgive Laura. She angry to Laura but she realized Laura is in bad condition and need her to the rest of Laura’s life. It
can be Laura’s last life. She feels pity to her sister, but she still cannot accept
Laura’s sorry. The following day, Constance wants to know about the past of
Laura and Paul. She wants to make sure if it is logic for her understanding about
this terrific problem so long time. She also makes sure what the thing that caused Paul’s died.
Laura said, ‘Not since soon after Daddy died.’
‘But you saw him recently. He came to see you. Why?’ ‘He wanted me to leave him the house in my will. I said no. ‘what else?’
‘He got drunk and spend the night in the spare room. He went next morning.’
‘what he depressed?’
‘Defeated, hopeless, a shambles… he’s been like that for the last six years.
(Lambert 343)
Laura told Constance about her love affair with Paul long ago. But Laura
did not tell to her about they often had a sex occasionally. Even while at Constance's house when she went to take the children's school, Paul and Laura
had sex in their private room. She also had been pregnant with Paul's child before being aborted because their mother knew first and suggest she must abort.
Although it never occurred to Laura to have an abortion on the grounds that she
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Constance what caused their households finally to be destroyed. So, Constance knows by herself after Paul died while Laura is sick in the hospital.
‘Mother knows about him and me. She told me not to tell you.’
‘…the children never knew?’
‘Never.’ (Lambert 344)
Once more Laura sorry about her fault to her sister but still Constance does
not forgive yet. In other occasion, Constance is really mad to her. But Constance by herself came to her suddenly with statement she already knows. Furthermore, Constance thinks to leave her. Make her no one company in hospital. Not with
Constance, nor her mother. Her mother is never come to see and she does not what happened between her daughter. So, Constance only people who in the
relation between mother and sister that never know the secret until she found it by herself. It is appropriate her to get anger to Laura.
‘Oh Coco, I’m so sorry.’
Her sister looked at her tearlessly, her face set in granite. ‘Don’t call me that. I have to go now. I don’t know if I’ll be back.’ (Lambert 344)
The climax summarized, Constance finally found out what caused her household with Paul destroyed, it was because of her sister. Before she never
thought that the woman is Laura, now the fact Constance had to accept is a
truthful that her husband abandoned herself for reasons of romance with her sister.
3.1.4. Denouement
The ending of this story is when Constance forgives Laura’s sin although
it is hard for her to do. Laura is also a dilemma because of her deeds. Actually she
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she be a very evil while in fact Laura really loves Constance, and her sister’s children too. Even before go to the hospital, Laura summoned the lawyer to write down the inheritance of Constance's children to be distributed of Laura’s wealth
when she was dead. For her guilt, she does not know what she would do again
after apologize. From what she feels, she shared her restlessness with her friend, Desmond, when he came to visit him in the hospital.
‘… no wonder you never told. But that reaction was shock. She’ll come and see you again. You’re her sister. She has to. Blood is thicker than
anything, even husband.’ (Lambert 345)
Constance has said that she does not return for Laura. But not far from that day, Constance came again to the hospital and realized that she should not to be
angry to her sister. She came as a sister to her only sibling, inform Laura for many thing that must be understand. She wants to marry again with another good man
named Gordon, and when the time Paul bury. After all, she though that Paul is her past and that love affair happened long ago. Although it really hard to her to accept all of the betrayal. Since that day Constance know the secret, over and over
again Laura apologizes to Constance. Now Laura has been sick hard and it can be the last in her life, she should be forgiven by her sister.
Then she saw Constance approaching, wearing a white dress. She slowed to a walk. A man was with her.
‘Laura, open your eyes,’ said Constance clearly. ‘Look at me. Do you know who I am?’
‘My sister.’
‘that’s right. And do you know who this is?’ ‘Gordon.’
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Based on their conversation, Constance seem had forgotten the incident yesterday that made her shock and angry. She came with there is nothing ever
happened. It is true what Desmond’s said, that although Constance said will no come back, however Laura is her sister. Constance would be back to her.
Constance at that time brings someone, her new partner. She no longer talks about Paul anymore. Whereas, the problem previously it was very complicated for both of them.
‘Please look at me. Please. I humbly beg your forgiveness for my sin. Will
you give it to me?’ …‘please’Laura implored urgency. ‘Say you forgive
me.’
‘I forgive you,’ she said. ‘And I forgive Paul too.’ (Lambert 349)
The above quotation shows Laura already apologized. Constance condition is normal again from the biggest shocked and she begun to be loyal to her sister.
As the following statement below is showing Constance trying her best to show how much she loves her only sister and Laura too. At the same time in the
hospital after Laura apologized, Constance keep her sister company till Laura said goodbye to her.
Constance leaned across the bed and took Laura’s hands, warming them
both between her strong palms. Her sister’s eyes were shut... Constance
bent toward Laura’s sunken pallor and kissed her both cold cheeks.
Laura’s whispered, ‘Goodbye.’ (Lambert 350)
From the ending story above, Laura described that she was forgiven by Constance. They show the good relation between siblings again. Finally
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to her. The above quotation has also explained they both back to each other's affections.
3.2. Laura’s Changing Character from the Plot 3.2.1. Laura is a Pathetic Woman in Exposition
From beginning of the story, the researcher found the main character named Laura King. She is woman aged forty four that has successful career and relationship with men. Although she has never married, she can fulfilled her life
with the lavish things.
Laura King was forty-four when she was told that she had only about a year to live: two at the most.…Her existence had provided lavish
opportunities for love and work and although she knew she was privileged, she had never felt particularly lucky, let alone humble. Laura took charge of her own future at an early ages. (Lambert 15)
But, unfortunately in aged forty four she has informed that she suffered
Hepatitis C and caused she is only has a year to live.
‘I have discussed your case with my colleagues and—as you know—we
analyzed two separe batches of blood samples as well as a PCR, a liver biopsy and antibody test…. I sent the second sample to a senior colleague at another hospital; a world expert. He confirm my diagnosis.’ (Lambert 17)
‘… the whole truth. Hepatitis C has invaded your liver,’ she said. (Lambert
18)
She though she has no choice except realized that she will die. She has not
any longer spirit because she has no one in her side. No family, no couple and anything although her career is success, she also has many wealth to continue her happiness of life. She could be everything she wants with her successful career.
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live only. Her expectation the days after diagnosed is about imagined the death. Her though she must learn a new hierarchy of consultants, doctors, nurses—and
groom herself for the cold formalities of death.
Laura had a simple, medieval image of death: a skeletal man in black cloak, bent over a scythe.—death as potrayed in old church frescos and devotional prayer books. She had dispensed with her notion of God long ago, but you have believe in death. You had no choice. (Lambert 29)
During her sadness because of her illness, she also feel how pity her life by
no one company her in this life. No father—her father was death and only has one sibling, her mother live in Miami and she live far from her family to have a work.
Although she is very fulfillment life, success in relationship with men, but so far she does not have a couple for her to marry.
‘As you all know, I have never married or had children. I realize that these are supposed to give women fulfillment in their lives, and I want to assure you truthfully that I have not missed them. … my father is dead. To whom else should I turn? My only sister, Constance, has her own concerns, and so do her children... I have no desire to take what I see as the cowardly way out, creeping back into the bosom of my much-neglected family.’ (Lambert 41)
She is woman with a pathetic condition. Because beside she has a enjoy life, but in other side she also feel nothing because of her loneliness. A common
event that human must feels is like; have a husband, then a children, live with family and have a full life between beloved person behind. But at all, she cannot reach it although she is in her mid age. In that sad condition, she suddenly
informed that she suffered from hepatitis C, she wants to find out someone who give her a place to keep her feel company, not lonely, have a couple to unburden
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‘Before I die I must find someone to shelter me, and unburden my conscience so that I can get on with this tiring, bloody business of facing up to death. (Lambert 47)
Laura described in exposition as success woman and filled her life with
lavish opportunities. But at all, she felt to be unlucky woman. At worse yet, she has no couple that can make her life full of companies. Because she only has a
year to live, she wants in her last time life, but there is no one she can share her life in togetherness.
‘When my illness was diagnosed—and it is a liver disease; not anything sexual, I do assure you—I turned to my friends to look after me. I have never been married. I have no children… I wanted to see those who loved
me and whom I loved for the last time.’ (Lambert 208-209)
Laura feels loneliness. Every day since her diagnosed, everything in her life become comparison by the other events, people, and activities that she tries to
appeal in her life. The atmosphere of sadness is clearly made her feel nothing and more ready to deserve to die.
‘I am dying. I am already, in a sense, on the other side. I look at the
vigorous lives of you, my friends, of people in the shops and on the streets, as though already from the far side of life. I feel closer to death.
Tears sprang to her eyes.
‘I am sorry. They’re not tears of self-pity—I just cry much more easily
these days. Emotion is closer to the surface. I was never sentimental but now the most absurd things move me instantly to tears. (Lambert 246)
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her loneliness, and she needs a people who can company her to spend the last of her life but she does not have them.
Tears rose to Laura’s eyes. ‘Desmond, I know what you’re trying to do
and it’s generous of you, and honest, but can we talk about something
else? To you on the side of life, the other side of life, all this is just
speculation, a sort of psychological exercise. To me in other side, Death is the next man in my life. The last man. I’ve been sleeping with him for nearly a year now. (Lambert 325)
3.2.2. Laura is Stubborn and Liar in Complication
In complication, Laura has a stubborn character. She has informed that she suffered hepatitis C with the samples and second test from the laboratory unit. But
she does not believe and dispute the information. She Justify her own argument that the doctor wrongly in takes the sample even though there has been in laboratory. She thought this is because she was too tired. And the diagnosed is
impossible because she is just stressed. It defined in quotation below.
‘Believe me, Miss King, I would not be telling you unless I were sure,’
Mrs Ripa answered… because it is fairly rare, I sent the second sample to
a senior colleague at another hospital; a world expert…’
‘No, but I’m very busy,’ Laura said. ‘When I felt tired or unwell, I
assumed it was due to the stress of work.’ (Lambert 17)
In addition, because of the illness caused her life only a year, the doctor
suggested a liver transplant. But she was disagreed to get it. She refused for the healing even though doctors have recommended thing to do.
we arrange a liver transplant—which is something you should start considering now.... (Lambert 18)
she wants to be told if she would probably live or probably die, and if the later, when. (Lambert 18)
I definitely don’t want a transplant…, because I deserve to die. (Lambert
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Based on quotation that described Laura’s thought above, it can be seen
Laura is a person with stubborn personality. From this part discussed of the events
what happened to Laura is not a burden thing to be sorry for her, but she accepted with the existing conditions. One of her acceptance is the kind of willing without
any effort to improve the situation that could be better such as a right suggestion to get liver transplant, but nevertheless she does not take that way, instead of take it, she does not try to obtain information about her healing, although just curious
how she can get well.
‘I don’t know what’s happening to me. I don’t know how long I’ve
got to live. I don’t know what dying will be like. All I know is that I hate it! (Lambert 184)
…
Mrs. Ripa smiled. ‘I sympathize. Believe me, I do. Now, I want you listen carefully. You are grown-up woman and clearly accustomed to making your own decisions. You told me clearly on that you did not want a liver transplant. I accepted that…can I ask you to think again? You can see that your illness is taking its course fairly, rapidly. I am not trying to persuade
you…I just want to be quite certain that you won’t reconsider at a stage when the time for a transplant may have passed.’
Laura said, ‘I am quite sure. I do not want a transplant.’(Lambert 184)
Because Laura deserve to dye, she unchanged her mind although realize
that her doctor’s recommendation is right. She is confirmed once again she would
a transplant or not, but in exposition she already give up with her condition because her life is very pathetic. From that event, she changed to be rigid without
spirit again. She can get well by do a transplant but she refused it. Her personality became stubborn because she has not any support in her life from her beloved people. Beside the researcher found Laura’s character is stubborn, she also a liar
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repeat love affair. In this case, Laura committed a crime against her sister by did love affair with her sister's husband, Paul. Actually their love affair was happened
about twelve years ago. But it happened again when Paul came to visit him and find out if it was true about the information that Laura was sick and would die.
From this event, Laura became a bad person by way of infidelity. In this part of the complication, it was found that Laura be an imprudent and very evil to her sister because the adultery.
‘… a lot has happened since then. But you were only love. You are the
man of my life… I will give you money, if you like—I can give you nearly
twenty thousand pounds. I don’t know what you will do with it and I
don’t really care.’ ‘Am I the man of your life?’
‘Oh Paul, of course. How could I love like that twice? Did you?’ (Lambert 300)
Since Paul came to see her condition, her though consider to judge that
there is a man who came again to her life and will stay for keep her company in the last of her life with love. Although Paul is her past, she does not care about it. She began to twine a relationship with him in the back stage by did a love affair.
Moreover, Laura pretends to sympathize over what happened to her sister, and to be the right person while her sister is suffered. Whereas, the cause of her sister
became like that is Laura’s deeds. Laura's character became a liar for the impact of her actions. She said hate to see her sister suffered because of an event that caused her sister grief. Then, Laura tried to be someone as a good sister to her
sibling, caring and attentive to her sister's suffered.
‘Paul’s left me,’ she said, dry-eyed.
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‘For some reason he can’t live with her… oh Laura he is my husband— their father—and we love him so much! How can we live without him? What am I to do?’
‘Wait a bit. Oh, darling… oh, Conce, I hate to see you suffer.’ (Lambert 294)
From the complication has been known character from Laura is a liar. She pretends to be kind and caring about her sister but in fact she has been having an
affair with her husband's sister.
3.2.3. Laura Changed to be Honest in Climax
If in complication she lied to her sister about cheated her sister's husband
and pretended to be very caring to her, instead she changed to be honest on climax. It is marked on the recognition of the affair that occurs when and what is
done by Laura and Paul. She says her mother knows everything and promises not to tell Constance. With a promise between Laura and Paul who will not tell
anyone under any circumstances, that is why Constance never understood what caused Paul to abandon him this far. In this occasion, Laura dilemmas with her sin to her lovely sister. She wants to told her and after that she want Constance’s
forgiveness. But she afraid to do it and choose to over thinking this problem alone. She know her life is very shorter in the end she also know that her sister
very fond of Laura. In her dilemmas, she met again with Desmond and share about what things can she do. Desmond understood better than anyone what it was to suffer in silence. He realized from her solitariness and the gap in her past that
