Analyzing Characters Through Narration

         In William Faulkner's novel "As I Lay Dying", the majority of the many different characters the reader is introduced to has at least one chapter where they narrate the events that are occurring in a train of thought monologue through their point of view. Being put into the head of these characters allows one to accurately assess their character and values as a human being while not disrupting the novel's pacing of the plot. For example, Cora Tull, the neighbor of the Bundrens (who are the protagonists), only thinks of trivial matters that concern just her such as a cake that she won't be able to sell while her friend Addie Bundren is dying. This snippet of narration reveals a lot about her hypocritical nature, for although she is a devout follower of Christianity, a religion which tends to believe helping others, Cora is very self-centered and only thinks about herself.
         While constantly switching viewpoints can be quite disconcerting, Faulkner makes this unique style work through the different "voices" of his characters. Each characters narration reflects their personality and education level, establishing a vastly different feel for each of them. This adds a level of depth that would be unattainable without so many different perspectives. Faulkner attempted a daring narrative style in this novel, and it worked brilliantly, establishing "As I Lay Dying" as a literary masterpiece.