Summary Of Steel Magnolias

Steel Magnolias is the story of six witty women who spend most of their time at the salon gossiping, exchanging recipes and, oh yes, occasionally getting their hair and nails done. The story is filled with many jokes and strong female friendship. Through the buzz of blowdryers and the haze of hairspray, these strong-willed Southern women retain a bond that can withstand any challenge. Combining humor and comedy with a tragic storyline, Steel Magnolias appeals to a wide variety of people. The play provides both comedic and mournful moments. In the end of the play, it is deeply revealing of the powerful bond the women share. Robert Harling uses conflict, mood, tone, and characters to portray this. The title suggest that women are delicate like

He obtained his law degree from Tulane University Law School in New Orleans, Louisiana. However, he never found a use for his law degree. Robert Harling later moved to New York City to pursue his acting career. Following the death of his sister, Susan, who’s death was due to diabetes, Robert Harling wrote Steel Magnolias. Steel Magnolias was written based on the authors personal experiences and tragic loss. The mood is laid back and comforting because the story takes place in a typical Southern town. Like the character Shelby, Susan passed away after giving birth. Today, Steel Magnolias has been translated into seventeen different languages and has been performed on Broadway. Steel Magnolias was made into a film starring many famous actresses such as Julia Roberts, Sally Field, and Dolly Parton. Also, the film won the Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1990 (Julia Roberts), as well as the People’s Choice Award for Best Dramatic Motion Picture in

Although, tragedy is hinted using foreshadowing throughout the second scene. The final scene introduces are tragedy, not unexpected, but tragic nonetheless. One of their own, Shelby, dies from complications from childbirth due to a life long struggle with diabetes. “Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion” (Harling 69) The rest of the characters cope with this devastating loss by falling back on humor to deal with their pain. M’Lynn is a perfect example of a Steel Magnolia. She is very devoted to her family, especially Shelby. M’Lynn spend time and energy protecting her daughter. When the play begins, M’Lynn realizes that she is losing control over Shelby’s life due to the engagement. Shelby is soon to be married so M’Lynn can not shelter her the way she always has. M’Lynn faces her biggest fear with the illness of her daughter. She seems to be convinced that she will not be able to survive Shelby’s death but in the end, Shelby proves that she is a Steel