Throughout The Sound and the Fury, a recurring theme would be the conflict of power. There is a consistent struggle between Caddy, Quentin, Jason, and Miss Quentin. In Quentin's memories, he repeatedly attempts to control Candy's life. Although Quentin believes he is doing what is best for her, his ambitions are blinded by his obsession of Caddy. Caddy and Miss Quentin struggle through similar situations. Both are desperate to escape the family regime, a representation of the pre-Civil War morals. While Jason, in his futile attempts, asserts his dominance in his family after the death of Father. Jason's conflict resides in maintaining his control on Miss Quentin. However, even he comes to the realization that this is pointless. After Miss Quentin commits the act of ultimate defiance against Jason, he is left powerless and even more resentful. Despite this power struggle, the true character in command has and always will be Dilsey. Despite her old age during Benjy's and Jason's narratives, she remains with absolute authority. Jason attempts to undermine her authority multiple times, but ultimately must reconcile with the fact that he cannot. Dilsey controls the family, and is responsible for the family. Dilsey has kept mother alive since Quentin's death, and continues to care for mother. Dilsey is the protector of Miss Quentin, and the immovable object to Jason. Her will is always carried out, yet she works passively.
excellent
ReplyDeleteI liked your comment on power and how you related it to Dilsey. Realistically, she is the one that holds what little remains of the family together and thus she should have the "power", but it is had by Jason, and he abuses it and his family. But then, his family's actions also dictate his actions and emotions, such as when Miss Quenitn leaves and angers him constantly, and he looses control all because of her and his family, which is ironic.
ReplyDeleteI really liked how you discussed the characters and their sort of 'hunger for power'. I never truly considered how all of the narrators are yearning to fill their voids by trying to control and gain power throughout the people in their lives. While reading, I only thought of the narrators I was reading about so I was never able to find this similarity. You made some good points!
ReplyDeleteI really liked how you pointed out the fact that even though Quentin was attempting to control Caddy and put her in her place, he did'nt know any better. Again, going back to that whole, "save women from themselves concept".
ReplyDeleteYou have an excellent point - that Caddy defies both Jason and Quentin almost as much as they attempt to control her. The fact that Miss Quentin has to rely on Dilsey even though she doesn't want to is interesting as well. One small typo - Caddy isn't Candy. Great blog!
ReplyDeleteI like how you pointed out the power struggles. This theme continues throughout the book, but it really starts here. I like how you pointed out specifics, like Dilsey being in charge. Caddy is also a great example. Awesome post!
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