In Light in August Faulkner explores Southern, and sometimes American, values regarding race, sexuality, regional origin, and religion.

1. Faulkner's early title for the manuscript of Light in August was "Dark House."

Why is this title appropriate? Is the final title of the novel more effective than the original?

2. In early drafts of the novel, the story began with Hightower, not Lena Grove.

What is the effect of having Lena begin and end the novel?

3. Byron Bunch is one of the few important characters in the novel who does not have a past. Even Lena, who is almost a symbolic character, has one.

Why do you think Faulkner does this?

How would the novel change if Byron's life was traced from birth or childhood, as it is for other major characters?

4. Robert Heilman, in Tragedy and Melodrama, sees tragic characters torn between the contradictory impulses and values...