Transferring Violence in Absalom, Absalom

William Faulkner's novel, "Absalom, Absalom!" delves into the intricate dynamics of violence that arise from class, national, and racial divisions, particularly in the context of the American South. The narrative explores the violent interactions between white Southerners and black slaves, which serve as a proxy for the violence that impoverished whites wish to unleash upon their wealthier counterparts. This essay examines how Thomas Sutpen's violent encounters with his "wild negroes" and his formative experiences with slavery epitomize this transference of rage and frustration, ultimately culminating in his tragic demise.

The Nature of Class and Racial Violence

At the core of Sutpen's character lies a deep-seated frustration with the social hierarchy that defines the South. As he navigates the socio-economic landscape, Sutpen becomes acutely aware of the disparities that exist not only between white and black individuals but also among whites themselves. His experiences reveal a harsh reality: the slaves of plantation owners often appear better cared for than Sutpen and his family. He observes, “a nigger who wore every day better clothes than he or his father and sisters had ever owned and ever expected to” (184). This realization breeds a sense of envy that is further complicated by the violent tendencies that manifest within Sutpen and his kin.

The Transference of Violence

The violence that Sutpen and other poor whites inflict upon black slaves is not born from a true desire to harm but rather serves as an outlet for their frustrations. They are unable to confront the wealthy plantation owners who embody the very superiority they resent. Thus, the slaves become the objects of their misplaced aggression. Sutpen's father, who embodies this rage, engages in violence against the slaves as a means of asserting power in a world where he feels powerless. Sutpen himself grapples with this dynamic, recognizing that “you could hit them…and they would not hit back…But you did not want to, because they (the niggers) were not it, not what you wanted to hit” (186). This acknowledgment signifies a turning point in Sutpen's understanding of violence: it is futile and misdirected.

The Illusion of Control

Sutpen's encounters with violence reveal a profound sense of helplessness. Despite his attempts to assert dominance through physical confrontations, he realizes that these acts do not address the root of his frustrations. The violence against the slaves serves only as a temporary release, failing to bring him closer to his ambitions. In one poignant moment, when confronted by a slave at the door, Sutpen loses his innocence, feeling the weight of his father's rage and contemplating violence against the man who represents the very oppression he resents (188). However, he quickly recognizes that this act would not provide the catharsis he seeks, highlighting the absurdity of his situation.

Violence as a Reflection of Failure

Ultimately, Sutpen's reliance on violence to navigate his frustrations reflects a deeper existential failure. His physical altercations with slaves do not elevate his status or fulfill his desires; instead, they reveal his inability to escape the mountain mentality that shaped his identity. Sutpen's desperate longing for procreation, as depicted in his view of his family as “cattle, creatures heavy and without grace,” underscores the futility of his ambitions (190). He cannot combat the systemic issues that define his existence; he can only lash out at those beneath him in the social hierarchy.

Conclusion: The Cycle of Violence

The transference of violence in "Absalom, Absalom!" serves as a poignant commentary on the complexities of class, race, and power in the South. Sutpen's struggles illustrate the tragic consequences of misdirected aggression and the inability to confront the true sources of frustration. The violence against slaves becomes a hollow expression of power, ultimately leading to Sutpen's downfall. In the end, the cycle of violence fails to bring resolution or redemption, leaving a legacy of despair and futility.

Key Themes and Takeaways

• Violence as a proxy for class resentment
• The futility of misdirected aggression
• The tragic consequences of systemic oppression
• The inability to escape one’s socio-economic background

Table of Violence in Absalom, Absalom!

In conclusion, Faulkner's exploration of violence in "Absalom, Absalom!" reveals the deep-seated frustrations that arise from social hierarchies and the destructive consequences of misdirected aggression. Through the character of Thomas Sutpen, the narrative illustrates how violence becomes a means of coping with powerlessness, ultimately leading to tragedy and despair.

References

Faulkner, William. Absalom, Absalom. New York: Vintage International, 1986. Print.