Pater Fidelis: Issues of Discipline in Faulkner, Achebe, and Luke
Name
English Composition 1102
Professor Cameron
October 15, 2014

Abstract
There is no book on how to be a good father. Most men learn by making mistakes. A good father learns from his errors. This paper examines a variety of paternal techniques that produce a diversity of results in A Rose for Emily, Marriage is a Private Affair, and The Prodigal Son.

Pater Fidelis: Issues of Discipline in Faulkner, Achebe, and Luke Parenting, especially for fathers, is a method of trial and miscalculations. The best patriarchal methods combine humility, forgiveness, and redemption while allowing for mistakes. This paper reveals three types of child rearing styles displayed in Faulkner, Achebe, and Luke. The worst type of father does nothing to prepare their children for the rigors of life. They lack instruction and provide little support or stability. Emily’s father attempts to isolate and deprive her of the one avenue open to her independence: another man. Faulkner (2007) stated “We remembered all of the men her father had driven away” (p. 81). It is clear that Emily’s father ordained that his daughter should only serve him. Her father does nothing to train her for the real world. She has no skills, money, or support. She is psychologically crippled by his dominance and selfishness. Akers (2002) explained “In the story, Emily's overprotective, overbearing father denies her a normal relationship with the opposite sex by chasing away any potential mates” (p. NA). In conclusion, fathers are not perfect. They must