Reputation is fairly important to Southern culture. Keeping up appearances can distract from any possible vulnerabilities, and it plays a strong factor in how other people view you. Throughout the novel, Granny places a large emphasis on making sure she is always viewed as a respectable Southern lady. While travelling, she wears her “Sunday black silk and her hat.” Following the conventions of Southern hospitality is incredibly important, especially in times of war. Granny is always polite. Even with Yankee soldiers, she is unfailingly courteous. As she hides Bayard and Ringo underneath her skirts, she invites the union soldier to have a glass of milk.
The civil war begins to disintegrate the boundaries of class, blurring the lines between