"No service was too humble for him to perform in the aid of the South, no adventure too perilous for him to undertake if consistent with the character of a civilian who was at heart a soldier, and who in good faith and without too much qualification assented to at least a part of the frankly villainous dictum that all is fair in love and war." (Chapter II)
This quote is imperative to the story because it tells us about Farquhar's character and where his loyalties lie. He is a hardworking man who spends his days working on a farm, but dreams of fighting for what he believes in. Farquhar's core belief is doing what he believes to be right, not considering the consequences or who is hurt in the process. Hence the quote, "all is fair in love and war." This article is a foreshadowing to his actions in the next chapter, where he risks his life and safety of his family for the confederates. Do you agree with his moral compass?
I agree, it is interesting that despite his wife and kids, he talks about and thinks about taking huge risks for his beliefs. I think these actions show the immature side of him.
ReplyDeleteVery perceptive, Amber. Is Farquhar being noble & patriotic or selfish?
ReplyDeleteI agree that he is being selfish because he lets the scout's words get into his head, and he does not think about what the effect of his decision will have on his loved ones.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if he was putting himself in danger for his wife and kids. Peyton is described as rich, slave owner, and a gentleman. He had it all so why would he foolishly risk it all to blow up a bridge? I wonder if he thought that if the south lost the war, his family would be killed or imprisoned for being slave owners and therefore he did all he could to help the south win.
ReplyDeleteFor sure, I think it is a combination of both selfishness and patriotism. He hopes to gain glory for himself, and additionally help the side he believes in.
ReplyDeleteI didn't think about that! He seems to be very rich meaning he could have all that he could want, yet if he helps the war and burns down the bridge, he could brag to all his friends and family that it was him and therefore receive glory from his actions. That puts a different spin on things!
ReplyDeleteYou guys have a good conversation going on this topic. I agree with Hanna when she said that he was being selfish when he let the scouts words get into his head. And once he hears how he could destroy the bridge he can’t stop thinking about the glory he would receive. Every human wants honor and respect. Maybe that’s what he thought he would get when destroyed the bridge.
ReplyDeleteI don't think using the phrase "all is fair in love and war" is a good moral compass. War makes people do things they wouldn't necessarily do in times of peace. I know this from reading history. Apparently people do weird things for love too. He should have chosen a better moral compass. Although I'm not sure what...
ReplyDeleteI had to laugh at "Apparently people do weird things for love too." Good comment, Jonas.
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