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Cover of The Side Of The Angels: A Novel

The Side Of The Angels: A Novel

Written by Basil King

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Physicians

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About this book

"The Side of the Angels: A Novel" by Basil King is a work of fiction written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around the intertwined lives of families in a small village, particularly focusing on Thorley Masterman, a young doctor struggling to establish himself in practice, and Rosie Fay, a woman from a family that has fallen into hardship. Through their experiences, the novel explores themes of social class, ambition, and the burdens of familial obligations. The opening of the novel sets the stage for a complex social landscape marked by generational differences and economic challenges. Thorley Masterman returns to his village with hopes of serving his community, but he quickly becomes aware of the socio-economic disparities that impact his patients, especially the Fay family. In particular, Mrs. Fay is revealed to be a proud woman plagued by despair, while her daughter Rosie appears caught between her love for Claude Masterman, Thorley's half-brother, and the harsh realities of her family's situation. As Thor navigates his relationships with the Fays and his own family, the opening chapters hint at underlying tensions that will likely shape their destinies as they seek to find hope and purpose amid adversity.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in The Side Of The Angels: A Novel, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • thought-provoking
  • moralistic
  • introspective

Basil King's "The Side Of The Angels" is a compelling early 20th-century novel that delves into the intricate moral landscape of a young woman, Elaine Thayer, as she navigates a world of rigid societal expectations and personal integrity. Faced with a complex moral dilemma, Elaine is forced to choose between the perceived 'right' path dictated by convention and the 'angelic' side of compassion, truth, and genuine human connection. The narrative meticulously explores the consequences of her choices, examining themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the true meaning of virtue amidst social pressures. It is a story of profound character development, where the protagonist's internal struggle becomes a mirror for broader societal questions about judgment and forgiveness.

“"There are two sides to every question, and the side of the angels is often the one least traveled."”

Key themes

Moral Choice and Consequence
The novel deeply explores the complex process of making ethical decisions, especially when faced with conflicting loyalties or personal costs. It examines how choices, particularly those made under duress, shape a person's character and determine their destiny, emphasizing the long-term repercussions of both principled stands and compromises.
Societal Expectations vs. Individual Conscience
This theme highlights the tension between the rigid rules and expectations imposed by society, particularly on women in the early 20th century, and an individual's innate sense of right and wrong. The narrative critiques social hypocrisy and the superficiality of reputation, advocating for the primacy of personal integrity over outward conformity.
Redemption and Forgiveness
The novel explores the possibility of redemption not just for those who have erred, but also for those who offer forgiveness. It suggests that true absolution comes through genuine remorse and acts of selfless love, and that forgiving others can be as liberating as being forgiven, challenging conventional notions of justice and punishment.

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Discuss the meaning of 'the side of the angels' in the context of the novel. How does it manifest in Elaine's choices?

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