Introducing
Your new presentation assistant.
Refine, enhance, and tailor your content, source relevant images, and edit visuals quicker than ever before.
Trending searches
Montana 1948 Themes
200
Montana 1948 - Themes
By Caitlin Symons
Justice vs Loyalty
A recurring theme in 'Montana 1948' is the choice of whether to serve justice for crimes committed or remain loyal to family members. Wesley Hayden is the main example of this theme because he is the county sheriff as well as the brother of a rapist and murderer. Familial loyalty is very important to Julian Hayden which he teaches his family. However, Wesley's job as the authority figure in the area warrants responsibility in terms of serving justice. The decision Wes makes will have negative results regardless of whether he sides with his family or the law.
Justice
Justice is quite subjective within the novel and is a very different thing to upholding the law. Due to the time and place of which the novella was set, the legal regulations are much less progressive than what they should have been. Wesley knows that the law will not serve justice to Frank because Wes has no authority in the reservations and the law fails to protect Native American women by default.
Loyalty
Loyalty is important to the Hayden family because it contributes to their image which Hayden sons are taught from a young age means everything. Patriarch Julian Hayden ensures everyone in his family are loyal to him so as not to reveal any secrets that could be detrimental to his representation and shatter the misleading façade of power that Julian has created for himself and his family.
Abuse of Power
Many characters in the story are in positions of power, including Frank, Wesley and Julian. These characters have the opportunity to abuse this power or use it for noble purposes. Wes is the only male in the Hayden family who uses his power for good and is ultimately a righteous person. Frank's position as a respected doctor can be easily taken advantage of in order to fulfil Frank's chosen life of debauchery. Julian uses his power to manipulate and intimidate others.
Frank
Frank Hayden is a charming and handsome war hero and doctor. In some ways he is the perfect role model and was always admired by David. His morals however leave far more to be desired. Frank sexually abuses Native American women under the guise of medical assistance. He does this cunningly so as not to jeopardise his respected place in society which would disappoint his proud father.
Julian
Julian Hayden is a rich former sheriff who David describes as arrogant, loud and overbearing. Julian craves the power to be able to intimidate and manipulate those around him in order to feel superior. It is likely that insecurities contribute to Julian's immoral actions. He is aware of Frank's crimes but sees no issues with them as long as he fathers no Indian children. Julian employs many people to perpetuate his significant presence in society.
Race Relations
The theme of racial prejudice occurs often within the novel. This is characteristic of the setting of the story. The Hayden brothers have been raised in a racist household and have developed prejudiced ideas of Native Americans. Wesley is much less racist than Frank and Julian and "simply holds them in low regard." Frank on the other hand actively abuses and assaults Indian women due to his complete lack of respect for Native Americans.
Coming of Age
Coming of age and loss of innocence is another prevalent theme. In 'Montana 1948', David Hayden's childhood is symbolised by his horse Nutty who lives on his grandfather Julian's ranch. David is faced with many adult issues and experiences and is forced to grow up within a very short amount of time. He is required to leave his childhood behind, both literally when he moves out of Montana, and figuratively when he quickly becomes more mature and less naive.