Montana 1948 Conflict Essay Example

father Julian, made me realize that even though West understands the value of family, human nature drives individuals to follow their own beliefs.

As a child, David Hayden discovers that his uncle Frank has been sexually assaulting Native American women. Later on, he also learns that Frank has murdered Marie Little Soldier, someone whom David deeply admired and cherished. This traumatic experience leads to an internal conflict for David as he debates whether to reveal Marie's fate to his parents or keep his uncle's secret, whom he once idolized.

Although David experiences this inner turmoil, it is not as significant as West's predicament. Being a child, David does not hold familial relations in the same regard as an adult would like West does. Therefore, when David becomes aware of Frank's murderous actions towards Marie, his inner conflict quickly fades away with just "that little thumb-rub below my neck" before the words pour out from him.

Watson explains that the notion of human age affects the significance we place on our beliefs. While West considers loyalty towards family equally important as obeying the law, David prioritizes justice over familial loyalty. Unlike West, he does not feel obligated to stay loyal to his familyDavid's decision to reveal Frank's crime to his parents is motivated by his personal affection for Marie, regardless of their relationship or social status. This illustrates how as one grows older, matters tend to become more complicated, as seen in David's struggle to determine what is right and whether he should embrace adulthood or cling onto his childish nature.

In the beginning of the novel, David's innocence is apparent when he feels pressured to please Frank and Gloria

due to their lack of children. Even after discovering Frank's crime, David's immaturity emerges as he cries himself to sleep, fearing that he will never see his horse, Nutty, again.

After Frank dies, David experiences a sense of satisfaction, believing that it resolved all their problems. However, as the story progresses, David begins to mature. The text demonstrates how Watson effectively uses contrast to portray David's growth and independence. This is demonstrated through his realization of his mother's flaws and his desire to protect her.

Through the revelation of truth, David is compelled to confront the harsh realities of the world which leads him towards maturity and experiencing adulthood. Consequently, Watson suggests that traumatic events can accelerate a child's development and expose them to adult responsibilities.

The contrast also reveals that individuals have varying levels of maturity which can be influenced by societal experiences.Watson uses contrast in Montana 1948 to depict the challenges that West and David encounter. The moral dilemma faced by West, torn between upholding the law or staying loyal to Julian, emphasizes how personal values outweigh family allegiance. Likewise, David's struggle with whether or not to reveal Frank's murder showcases how age impacts one's priorities, ultimately suggesting that societal influences can mold a child's level of maturity.