Retribution in "Barn Burning"

The Ruined Rug

In William Faulkner's short story "Barn Burning," Major de Spain desires retribution for his ruined rug. The character's father, Abner Snopes, intentionally soiled a prized rug belonging to Major de Spain. When confronted, Abner cleaned the rug but did so in such a damaging way that it was further ruined. Major de Spain demands reparation in the form of a hefty fine. However, this does not occur as per his demand; instead, a reduced amount of bushels were decided as repayment. So, while elements such as the sorrel mare or his barn play roles in the narrative, Major de Spain wants retribution primarily for his ruined rug.