Internal Conflicts

Examines the inner struggles of key characters: Tom's anger, Uncle John's guilt, Rose of Sharon's despair, and Ma's hidden grief.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

Tom's Anger vs. Restraint

The Struggle The Prison Experience Tom has learned to control his anger in prison. He knows that losing his temper can send him back. He tries to stay calm. The Provocations Tom is provoked by deputies and vigilantes. He wants to fight but holds back. His mother begs him to stay out of trouble. The Breaking Point When Casy is killed, Tom's anger explodes. He kills the vigilante. He can no longer restrain himself. His internal conflict is resolved by action.

Uncle John's Guilt

The Burden The Sin Uncle John believes he killed his wife by not getting a doctor. He carries this guilt constantly. He feels he brings bad luck. The Attempts at Redemption He gives gifts to children. He tries to be good. But the guilt never leaves. He drinks to escape. The Resolution Uncle John disposes of the stillborn baby, hoping it will bear witness. He finds a purpose in his guilt. His internal conflict is partially resolved.

Rose of Sharon's Despair

The Desolation The Loss Rose of Sharon is abandoned by Connie. She feels worthless. She fears for her baby. She is consumed by self-pity. The Fear A religious woman tells her that her sins will harm the baby. She is terrified. She believes she is cursed. The Transformation After the stillbirth, Rose of Sharon is at her lowest. But in the barn, she finds a new purpose. She gives her breast milk to a starving man. Her despair turns to compassion.

throughout the story

throughout the story

after Connie's abandonment