Unraveling Sarty’s Characterization in Faulkner’s “Barn Burning”

Unraveling Sarty’s Characterization in Faulkner’s “Barn Burning”

William Faulkner’s short story “Barn Burning” delves deeply into the complexities of Sarty’s characterization, illustrating the intricate web of moral conflict, family loyalty, and the broader themes of social justice and class struggle prevalent in Southern literature. Faulkner’s nuanced portrayal of Sarty, a young boy caught between his familial ties and his burgeoning sense of right and wrong, serves as a poignant exploration of coming-of-age amidst the turbulent backdrop of the American South.

The Setting and Background

Set in the post-Civil War South, “Barn Burning” reflects the socio-economic struggles faced by its characters. The story opens with Sarty and his family attending a court trial, where his father, Abner Snopes, is accused of burning a barn in retaliation against a wealthy landowner. This setting is critical, as it not only frames the Snopes family’s poverty but also highlights the class struggles that are integral to Sarty’s moral dilemma.

Sarty’s Characterization: A Study in Conflict

Sarty, whose full name is Colonel Sartoris Snopes, embodies the conflict between familial loyalty and individual morality. Faulkner expertly crafts Sarty’s character as a reflection of the broader themes of his work. From the outset, Sarty is depicted as a sensitive and perceptive child, aware of the injustices surrounding him. His father’s actions, although rooted in a sense of pride and defiance, clash with Sarty’s growing understanding of right and wrong.

As the story progresses, Sarty’s internal struggles become increasingly pronounced. He grapples with his loyalty to his father and his innate sense of justice. This moral conflict is evident when he considers the implications of his father’s actions – the burning of barns not only perpetuates a cycle of violence but also jeopardizes the safety and stability of their family. Faulkner captures this turmoil through Sarty’s thoughts and feelings, allowing readers to witness the evolution of his character.

The Role of Family Loyalty

Family loyalty is a dominant theme in “Barn Burning,” and it plays a crucial role in shaping Sarty’s characterization. Initially, Sarty exhibits a deep-seated loyalty to his father, a loyalty that is almost instinctual. However, as he witnesses the consequences of Abner’s actions, Sarty begins to question the validity of this loyalty.

• Conflicted Emotions: Sarty’s love for his father is complicated by the shame he feels regarding Abner’s behavior. This conflict is beautifully illustrated in the scenes where he is torn between wanting to protect his family and recognizing the moral bankruptcy of his father’s actions.
• Growing Awareness: Sarty’s character arc is defined by his gradual awakening to social justice issues. As he grapples with his father’s lawlessness, he begins to identify with the victims of Abner’s wrath, leading him to a critical turning point in his moral development.

The Coming-of-Age Journey

Faulkner’s depiction of Sarty serves as a powerful coming-of-age narrative. The story’s climax, where Sarty ultimately decides to abandon his father’s destructive path, marks a significant moment in his maturation. This choice is not made lightly; it is the culmination of a profound internal struggle that defines his character.

In the final scenes, Sarty runs away from his family, symbolizing his break from the toxic cycle of violence and loyalty to wrongdoing. This act of defiance is not just a rejection of Abner’s authority but also a step towards establishing his own identity and moral framework. Faulkner illustrates Sarty’s transition from a boy bound by familial ties to a young man who is willing to stand up for his beliefs, even at the cost of alienating his family.

Social Justice and Class Struggle

Sarty’s characterization also serves as a lens through which Faulkner critiques the social justice issues of his time. The story highlights class struggle, portraying the stark divide between the impoverished Snopes family and the wealthy landowners. Sarty’s awareness of this divide deepens his moral conflict, as he begins to recognize the broader implications of his father’s actions on their community.

Faulkner’s storytelling emphasizes the cyclical nature of poverty and violence in the South. Sarty’s choice to reject his father’s path can be interpreted as an act of resistance against the oppressive social structures that dictate the lives of individuals like him. By choosing integrity over loyalty, Sarty embodies the hope for a new generation that seeks to challenge the status quo.

Conclusion

Sarty’s characterization in Faulkner’s “Barn Burning” is a complex interplay of moral conflict, family loyalty, and socio-economic struggles. Through Sarty’s journey, Faulkner offers a profound commentary on the human condition, the nature of justice, and the painful process of growing up. As readers, we are invited to reflect on our own values, the importance of standing up for what is right, and the enduring impact of familial ties.

Faulkner’s work remains a seminal piece of Southern literature that resonates with contemporary audiences. Sarty’s struggles mirror the ongoing conversations about social justice and class issues, making his story timeless and relevant. As we unravel the layers of Sarty’s character, we gain insights into the complexities of human relationships and the moral dilemmas we all face in our lives.

FAQs

• What is the main conflict in “Barn Burning”?
  The main conflict revolves around Sarty’s struggle between loyalty to his father and his emerging sense of morality and justice.
• How does Faulkner portray family loyalty in the story?
  Faulkner depicts family loyalty as a double-edged sword, as Sarty’s loyalty to his father conflicts with his ethical beliefs.
• What themes are explored in Sarty’s characterization?
  The themes of moral conflict, coming-of-age, social justice, and class struggle are central to Sarty’s characterization.
• How does Sarty’s character evolve throughout the story?
  Sarty evolves from a boy blindly loyal to his father to a young man who prioritizes his moral convictions over familial allegiance.
• What role does the setting play in “Barn Burning”?
  The Southern setting underscores the social and economic struggles faced by the characters, shaping their identities and conflicts.
• What is the significance of Sarty’s decision at the end of the story?
  Sarty’s decision to leave his family represents a rejection of violence and a step toward establishing his own moral compass.

For further exploration of Faulkner’s themes and characters, consider checking out this detailed analysis of his works on Southern Literature Studies.

For a broader understanding of moral conflicts in literature, you might find this resource on Literary Analysis insightful.

This article is in the category Styles and created by farmhousebarns Team