The Middle Ground stories Summary

Wash, a man who would be considered poor white trash at the time of the Civil War, does not go to war when the master of the plantation on which he lives leaves for war. When Colonel Sutpen returns from the Civil War, he begins a relationship with Wash's granddaughter, a relationship that Wash does not end because he believes Sutpen will do right by the granddaughter. The granddaughter becomes pregnant and gives birth to a baby girl. Wash is overjoyed at the birth of his great granddaughter. Wash's joy is short lived when he overhears Sutpen belittle the girl then speak of a horse with greater respect. In his anger, Wash kills Sutpen. He then sits and waits for the officers to come and arrest him. When they arrive, he slits his granddaughter's throat then sets...