Heritage

Heritage is a common theme throughout this novel. Stanislaw is patriotic because his experience as an immigrant gives him another view of America. He sees it as the true land of opportunity and independence and raises his children to also appreciate these attributes of life in America. Because of his proud patriotism, four out of five of his children serve the U.S. military as pilots during World War II. The daughter who does not serve as a pilot helps the military war effort from home by rolling bandages for the Red Cross.

Lenore's patriotism to the long-defunct Confederacy is portrayed as problematic and complicated. She honors her grandfather because of his service in the Confederate army. She harbors resentment against northerners and often refers to them as Yankees. She is very proud of her family's heritage, and remains patriotic to the Confederacy despite its loss...