Absalom, Absalom!

Definition

Absalom, Absalom! is a novel by William Faulkner published in 1936, which explores themes of family, history, and the South's legacy through the tragic story of Thomas Sutpen and his plantation. The narrative is rich with multiple perspectives, weaving a complex tale of ambition, betrayal, and the deep scars of racism and class struggle that haunt Southern society. This work stands out for its innovative narrative style and intricate storytelling that reflects the fragmented nature of memory and history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The novel is structured through multiple narrators, each providing their own perspective on Sutpen's life and the events that unfold around him.
2. Thomas Sutpen, the protagonist, represents the archetype of the self-made man whose ambition leads to both success and ruin.
3. The title references the Biblical story of Absalom, reflecting themes of familial betrayal and tragic downfall.
4. Faulkner employs a non-linear timeline, requiring readers to piece together the narrative from various angles to fully understand the complexity of events.
5. The novel critiques the Southern social hierarchy and examines how historical legacies impact individual identities and relationships.

Review Questions

• How does Faulkner's use of multiple narrators in 'Absalom, Absalom!' affect our understanding of Thomas Sutpen's character?
  • Faulkner's use of multiple narrators provides diverse perspectives on Thomas Sutpen, creating a multi-faceted view of his character. Each narrator brings their own biases and interpretations, allowing readers to see Sutpen not just as a singular figure but as a product of his environment and history. This approach also highlights how subjective memory can shape narratives, complicating our understanding of truth in his story.
• Analyze how 'Absalom, Absalom!' embodies the characteristics of Southern Gothic literature.
  • 'Absalom, Absalom!' exemplifies Southern Gothic literature through its exploration of decay, isolation, and the grotesque aspects of Southern society. Faulkner portrays the decline of aristocratic families and the haunting pasts that linger over them. Themes such as racism and class struggle are deeply embedded in Sutpen's ambitions and failures, reflecting the moral complexities and cultural decay present in the South during this period.
• Discuss how Faulkner's treatment of history and memory in 'Absalom, Absalom!' challenges traditional narratives about the American South.
  • In 'Absalom, Absalom!', Faulkner challenges traditional narratives by presenting history as fragmented and subjective. The nonlinear structure and multiple perspectives underscore how personal memories shape collective history. Faulkner suggests that understanding the South requires grappling with its painful legacies rather than idealizing or simplifying its past. This nuanced approach compels readers to confront uncomfortable truths about identity, race, and history in the American South.

Related terms

Stream of Consciousness: A literary technique that attempts to capture the flow of thoughts and feelings running through a character's mind, often leading to non-linear storytelling.

Southern Gothic: A subgenre of Gothic fiction set in the American South, characterized by grotesque characters, decayed settings, and social issues like racism and classism.

Mythic South: The concept that portrays the American South as a land rich in mythology, legend, and complex historical narratives that shape its identity.