King David and Absalom's Story in Absolam, Absolam!

William Faulkner's Retelling of a Biblical Story

King David and Absalom's Story in Absalom, Absalom!:

William Faulkner's Retelling of a Biblical Story

The most obvious theme that runs throughout William Faulkner's Absalom, Absalom! is the biblical theme. In fact, the novel follows an entire biblical story - the story of King David and his son Absalom. According to Irving Malin, "Faulkner frequently cites the Old Testament as one of his favorite books" (65). This is significant because it explains his use of the Bible and biblical references throughout his works. By examining the biblical story in Absalom, Absalom!, the reader can gain a better understanding of Faulkner's novel. Through his book Absalom, Absalom!, William Faulkner retells the biblical story of King David and his son Absalom, using different characters to represent different qualities of both biblical characters.

In Second Samuel, Absalom is portrayed as the most beautiful creature in Israel, who is loved by his father and all those who know him. The scripture says:

In all Israel there was not a man so highly praised for his handsome appearance as Absalom. From the top of his head to the sole of his foot there was no blemish in him. Whenever he cut the hair of his head-he used to cut his hair from time to time when it became too heavy for him-he would weigh it, and its weight was two hundred shekels by the royal standard. (2 Sam. 14:25-26)

Absalom's only downfall is his pride, which he allows at times to control him. He thinks that he should be entitled to all of the power that his father possesses since he is the king's son. His pride and seek for power eventually drives him to his death.