Final Paper

Barn Burning
Heather Thomas
Indiana Wesleyan University
ENG-242
Mack Armstrong
February 26, 2013

I have read and understand the plagiarism policy as outlined in the syllabus and the sections in the Student Bulletin relating to the IWU Honesty/Cheating Policy. By affixing this statement to the title page of my paper, I certify that I have not cheated or plagiarized in the process of completing this assignment. If it is found that cheating and/or plagiarism did take place in the writing of this paper, I understand the possible consequences of the act/s, which could include expulsion from Indiana Wesleyan University.

Final Paper: Barn Burning In the short story, “Barn Burning,” William Faulkner wrote to show us the uncertainty of our individual futures. In many instances, author’s write from personal experience and perspectives, and like stated in our assignment description, they write, “both as reflections of and influences upon their culture.” Here, Faulkner gives us a safe look at the different classes of people in the Old South, where race, monetary value and differences in social class are all derivatives of his purpose. The thesis of “Barn Burning” is implied throughout the story. In my own words, the thesis of this story is given through the analysis of a young and impressionable boy who struggles between moral choices of family loyalty and the moral expectancy of civic justice. In this essay, I will identify and discuss literary elements such as plot, conflict, setting, character analysis, point of view and symbolism suggested in the story. The plot of “Barn Burning” is shadowed with the beginning of young Colonel Sartoris Snopes life and his brush with the law. In this case, Sartoris’ father Abner has been accused of burning a barn. The plaintiff insists Abner had sent word to him through a black man that