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Library's collection Library's IT development CancelThis thesis is concerned with Bayard Sartoris' interpretation of the Code of
Honor in William Faulkner's The Unvanquished. The writer of the thesis learns that
the Old South is Faulkner's main subject because he tries to present how he treasures
the spirit of the Code of Honor which characterizes the life of the Old South, yet, he
also becomes critical seeing the rigid adherence of the Southern people to the Code
of Honor. The thesis analyses firstly Bayard's family, in this case Miss Rosa Millard
and Colonel John Sartoris, as the setting in which Bayard lives. Bayard's family
shows the idea of the Code of Honor which requires his total devotion and obedience
to the Code. This family influence then results in Bayard's absolute interpretation
of the Code because he believes that it is the right thing for him to do. However,
through the presentation of Bayard's actions, speeches and thoughts toward his duty
to avenge for the death of his grandmother and the crumbling situation of the Old
South, Bayard questions the Code of Honor as the Code does not give him any
content. In the process of turning inward, Bayard finally finds that the Code is no
longer absolute since the Code proves to obliterate his chance to listen to his
conscience and to shape his own individuality. Bayard then puts in practice his new
code by not taking a revenge for the death of his father. Bayard's final action
indicates Bayard's finding of his integrity.