The Sound and the Fury

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1929

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Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Literary Devices

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Tools

Discussion Questions

Essay Topics

Compare and contrast the Compson brothers, Benjy, Quentin, and Jason. What do they have in common, if anything? What characterizes their differences? Could they all be considered protagonists? If so, in what way(s)? If not, then who might be the protagonist of the novel, if any?

How is Caddy’s sexual awakening characterized by the other members of the Compson family? Why might this be so central to the novel? How does Caddy view her own sexual nature?

Why include Benjy’s narrative? What does his perspective add to the story of a family in decline? How does his inability to communicate impact his narrative and the ways in which the others perceive him?