A Study On Faulkner's Novel Light In August

William Faulkner is acclaimed as one of the most outstanding American writers of the twentieth century, enjoying a high reputation as a first-rate writer in American literature. Light in August is considered as a masterpiece of Faulkner's works. By profound moral significance, minute psychological descriptions and unique narrative techniques, William Faulkner passes his judgments on the human life and the contradiction of human nature. The issues Faulkner explores in his fiction share affinities with what the existentialists elucidate. Therefore, the object of this study is to expound the theme of Light in August in terms of existentialism in the following angles: being in the world, alienation, pursuit of individual and being with others.This thesis consists of four parts:Chapter One deals with the relationship between Faulkner and existentialism: Section One introduces Faulkner and his Yoknapatwapha series; Section Two briefly depicts the plot of the novel; Section Three concerns the affinities between Faulkner and existential tendency; Section Four reviews the contemporary comments on the novel and then narrates the perspectives of this thesis.Chapter Two provides a brief introduction to existentialism, focusing on the notions and terms to be used in the thesis.Chapter Three centers on Faulkner's explanation of man's existence in the world: Section One reveals Faulkner's perception of the absurd world and human existence. The absurdity lies in the basic discord in the relationship between man and the universe. As a physical part of the world, man cannot escape the absurdity. Section Two concerns the alienation that is induced by the indifferent and absurd world. The alienated behaviors of different characters in the novel shows man cannot escape the alienating forces from the world. Section Three analyzes the characters'self-discovery and states the achievements of their authentic selves. Faulkner's presentation of man's authenticity shows his positive attitude towards man's struggle in the absurd world, which is also the credo of existentialism. Section Four centers on Faulkner's elaboration of interpersonal relationship. This part illustrates that the positive interpersonal relationship is the key to self-transcendence, which shares the affinities with the relevant theories of existentialism.Chapter Four focuses on the existential aesthetic value of the novel from the angle of tragedy and human existence, which reflects Faulkner's existential evaluation of human life and philosophical consideration into the ultimate meaning of human existence.As a spokesman of the American south literature, faulkner never ceases to show his solicitude to the society. His works shine with the philosophical colors, where he harbors his exact value and contribution to the social crisis and spiritual crisis. The exsitential analysis helps us to have a general understanding to the novel, and futhermore comprehend faulkner's sensitive exploration towards human existence in an advenced level.