In his novel “Absalom, Absalom!” William Faulkner recounts the story of Thomas Sutpen, a pioneer who tries to establish his family dynasty in the Southern aristocratic plantation society in Mississippi. Thomas Sutpen rigorously pursues his design at all costs, not considering the possible consequences. This moral flaw in his character causes the downfall of his dynasty and the destruction of the whole family. At the end of the novel Sutpen’s Hundred, the decaying mansion Sutpen built to accomplish his design, is burned down, together with the last descendants of the family.
This tragic development of the story provokes the idea of poetic justice, where virtue is rewarded and vice is punished. But can such a sharp categorization really be applied on this complex novel?
In the following paper I will show whether the term poetic justice can be applied on “Absalom, Absalom!”. I will take a look at the elements which might support this assumption by considering the characters’ development and function in the novel in order to show if they support the idea of punishment or reward.
However, first of all I will take a closer look at the term poetic justice in general. I will give a definition, view its origins and examine its use in historical and recent context before applying it on Faulkner’s novel “Absalom, Absalom!”.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Poetic Justice: Definition and origins
- Poetic Justice in "Absalom, Absalom!"
- Thomas Sutpen
- Rosa Coldfield
- Sutpen's children
- Judith Sutpen
- Henry Sutpen
- Charles Bon
- Conclusion
Objectives and Key Themes
This paper examines the applicability of the concept of poetic justice to William Faulkner's "Absalom, Absalom!". It aims to analyze whether the novel's characters receive rewards or punishments proportionate to their virtue or vice. The analysis will involve defining poetic justice, exploring its historical context, and applying it to the specific characters and events within the novel.
- The definition and historical evolution of poetic justice.
- The application of poetic justice as a critical lens for analyzing literature.
- The role of morality and consequences in shaping the narrative.
- An examination of character development and its relation to the concept of poetic justice.
- A discussion of the complexities of applying a simple concept like poetic justice to a nuanced narrative.
Chapter Summaries
Introduction: This introductory chapter sets the stage for the paper by outlining the central theme: the exploration of poetic justice in William Faulkner's "Absalom, Absalom!". It introduces Thomas Sutpen, his ambition to establish a dynasty, and the tragic downfall of his family. The chapter raises the question of whether the events of the novel align with the concept of poetic justice, where virtue is rewarded and vice punished. The author's intention to analyze the novel through this critical lens is clearly stated, laying the foundation for the subsequent chapters that will delve into the definition of poetic justice and its application to the characters and events of the story.
Poetic Justice: Definition and origins: This chapter provides a comprehensive definition of poetic justice, tracing its origins from ancient philosophical notions to its coining by Thomas Rhymer. The chapter details the evolution of the term, noting its initial association with tragedy and its later expansion across various literary genres. It discusses the contrasting viewpoints on poetic justice, highlighting its once-central role in literary criticism and its subsequent devaluation in the 19th and 20th centuries. Examples from literary criticism and media guidelines are cited to show the ongoing debate surrounding the relevance and artistic merit of applying poetic justice as a critical framework.
Keywords
Poetic justice, William Faulkner, Absalom, Absalom!, Thomas Sutpen, Southern Gothic, morality, consequences, family dynasty, tragic downfall, literary criticism.
FAQ: Absalom, Absalom! - A Study of Poetic Justice
What is the main topic of this academic paper?
The paper examines the concept of poetic justice in William Faulkner's novel, "Absalom, Absalom!". It analyzes whether the characters' fates align with the principle of poetic justice, where virtue is rewarded and vice punished.
What are the key themes explored in the paper?
The key themes include the definition and historical evolution of poetic justice, its application as a critical lens for analyzing literature, the role of morality and consequences in shaping the narrative, character development in relation to poetic justice, and the complexities of applying this concept to a nuanced narrative.
Which characters from "Absalom, Absalom!" are specifically analyzed?
The analysis focuses on Thomas Sutpen, Rosa Coldfield, and Sutpen's children: Judith, Henry, and Charles Bon. The paper explores how their actions and consequences relate to the concept of poetic justice.
What is the structure of the paper?
The paper is structured into chapters including an introduction, a chapter defining poetic justice and its origins, a chapter applying poetic justice to the characters of "Absalom, Absalom!", and a conclusion. It also includes a table of contents, objectives and key themes, chapter summaries, and keywords.
What is the purpose of the chapter on the definition and origins of poetic justice?
This chapter provides a comprehensive understanding of poetic justice, tracing its historical context from ancient philosophy to its modern interpretations. It discusses different perspectives on its relevance and application in literary criticism.
How does the paper apply poetic justice to the novel?
The paper uses poetic justice as a critical lens to analyze the characters' actions and their fates within the narrative of "Absalom, Absalom!". It examines whether the novel's events demonstrate a consistent application of this principle.
What are the key words associated with this paper?
The key words include: Poetic justice, William Faulkner, Absalom, Absalom!, Thomas Sutpen, Southern Gothic, morality, consequences, family dynasty, tragic downfall, and literary criticism.
What is the intended audience for this paper?
The intended audience is academic, focusing on literary analysis and the application of critical theories to literature. The OCR data is intended solely for academic use.
Where can I find more information on poetic justice?
Further research into the concept of poetic justice can be conducted through scholarly articles and books on literary theory and criticism. Exploring the works of Thomas Rhymer and other relevant critics would be beneficial.
What is the overall argument of the paper?
The paper's overall argument revolves around exploring the applicability and limitations of using poetic justice as a framework for interpreting the complex narrative and character development within William Faulkner's "Absalom, Absalom!".
- Quote paper
- Manuela Gertz (Author), 2010, Poetic Justice in William Faulkner's "Absalom Absalom", Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/153908
