A Study of Marxism in Faulkner's Barn Burning

Some of things that people think are built on a righteous foundation are often the result of actions or events that are completely dishonorable. Aspects like wealth and influence can be gained by means that are immoral and inhumane. This is the case with Sarty Snopes’ fascination with the wealth of Major deSpain. He cannot see through the huge house and vast estate to the barbarity by which it was gained. "Hit’s as big as a courthouse he thought quietly" (377). Because of the deSpains barbaric nature, Sarty Snopes’ feelings towards the deSpains are misplaced. 

William Faulkner’s "Barn Burning" takes place in the south during the post-Civil War era. During this time many people were adjusting to a life without slaves. Before the war, people gained wealth at the expense of cheap labor from slaves. Slavery was one of the few ways that people could manage a huge estate like the deSpain’s and still be able to turn a profit. It is evident in the story that the deSpain’s were possible slave owners given the fact they still have Black help now. The deSpains probably owned many more slaves before the end of the war when the institution was outlawed. Based on these facts the barbarity of the deSpains is clear. The deSpains can also be considered barbaric in the way they maintain their wealth during the time Sarty and his family move onto the deSpain’s property.