Narrative Structure in Faulkner

Narrative Structure in Faulkner

For this assignment, choose a scholarly critical article from one of the SCTC Library databases, or Google Scholar that makes a clear argument about any one of the stories you’ve read for class so far. The article you choose must provide more than basic biographical information and plot summary alone- it must make an opinionated argument about some aspect of the literary work you’ve read for class. Please summarize the article’s main ideas, then evaluate your article’s merits– is the author’s thesis interesting? Did you agree with its ideas? Did the author do an effective job proving their argument- why or why not?

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APA

Narrative Structure in Faulkner

In his 1985 essay “Against Interpretation,” John Skinner examines William Faulkner’s “A Rose for Emily,” focusing on the story’s narrative structure and the implications of its non-linear timeline. Skinner argues that Faulkner’s use of a fragmented narrative, where the story’s events are presented out of chronological order, serves to mirror the protagonist Emily Grierson’s psychological state and the town’s collective memory. This structure challenges readers to piece together the narrative, reflecting the disjointed and selective recollections of the townspeople and Emily herself. Skinner suggests that this technique not only enhances the story’s suspense but also deepens its themes of isolation, denial, and the passage of time.​Wikipedia

Evaluation of the Article

Thesis Evaluation: Skinner’s thesis is compelling as it offers a fresh perspective on Faulkner’s narrative technique. By focusing on the structural aspects of the story, he provides insights into how form and content intertwine to enhance the reader’s understanding of the themes.​

Agreement with Ideas: I agree with Skinner’s analysis. The non-linear structure of “A Rose for Emily” indeed reflects the fragmented nature of memory and the difficulty of confronting uncomfortable truths. This approach allows readers to experience the disorientation and gradual revelation that mirrors Emily’s own experiences.​Wikipedia

Effectiveness of Argument: Skinner effectively supports his argument by closely analyzing the text and demonstrating how the narrative structure contributes to the story’s thematic depth. His analysis is well-structured and insightful, providing a nuanced understanding of Faulkner’s storytelling techniques.​

Conclusion

John Skinner’s essay offers a thoughtful and well-supported analysis of “A Rose for Emily,” highlighting the significance of its narrative structure in conveying the story’s themes. His argument enhances the reader’s appreciation of Faulkner’s craftsmanship and