The Shadowy Third by Ellen Glasgow is both a ghost story and a moral lesson in sympathy. In spite of the fact that the plot seems to develop quite predictably, it is definitely worth reading. Ellen Glasgow follows the rules for writing a ghost story, using the well-known tricks. However, these attributes that often migrate from one story to another, can’t prevent a reader from enjoying The Shadowy Third.
Margaret is the protagonist of the story. She is young, kind, and cheerful. In spite of the fact that she works as a nurse and sees a lot of suffering on a daily basis, the young woman doesn’t lose the ability to sympathize. She is strong and generous enough to share her love for life with those who are in need. Just like any other girl at the hospital, Margaret is in love with a surgeon. Ronald Maradick is a hero for them. Attractive, charismatic, and ambitious, this man can catch any woman in his web. It is important to mention that Margaret doesn’t try to win his affection, for it is a well-known fact that the man is married. Her love looks more like admiration. The day she receives an offer to be a night nurse of Mrs. Maradick becomes a turning point. As soon as she enters Mr. and Mrs. Maradick’s house, she notices that something strange is going on there. For instance, Doctor Maradick tries too hard to be charming, even though he doesn’t need to. This is the very first time when readers see the man’s true face; he is a manipulator. Mr. Maradick is well-aware of the fact that Margaret is in love with him and is ready to use it to his own advantage.
Mrs. Maradick’s story is a tragic one. She used to be in love, happy, and content, and now she is both broken and abandoned. Her little daughter is dead and that is her husband’s deed. She can’t help blaming herself for falling in love with him, for trusting him, and letting her daughter down. Though it is not her fault, Mrs. Maradick’s heart is full of sorrow and grief. Margaret becomes her supporter, a person she can trust. It is important to mention that Margaret chooses Mrs. Maradick’s side. The young nurse doesn’t let passion take over; she listens to her heart that says her to help the poor woman.
The Shadowy Third reminds us that it is impossible to build happiness using dishonest methods. Ronald Maradick is so blinded by passion that he can’t even understand what an awful crime he commits. True love doesn’t need sacrifices he does. Margaret is reasonable enough to see that he is not the man he pretends to be. His kindness is not genuine, his tender words are false. The innocent child’s death and Mrs. Maradick’s bitter ending prove that he has a heart made of a stone. Does he deserve happiness? The answer is no, for we, people, have to treat other people in a way we want them to treat ourselves.
