Robbery Under Arms · Question
How does Robbery Under Arms develop the theme of Honor and Morality?
Answer
Robbery Under Arms by Rolf Boldrewood develops Honor and Morality across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.
Characters grapple with a code of honor among thieves, contrasting with societal morality; Starlight's gentlemanly conduct and the gang's refusal to kill in cold blood are set against Moran's brutality, highlighting moral ambiguity.
Dick's internal debate between the easy outlaw life and honest work reflects the moral choices central to the chapter.
Dick reflects on the value of honest work and the peace of a clear conscience, while haunted by memories of wrongdoing.
Jim's refusal of reward and his desire to be honest contrast with the family's criminal entanglements, highlighting the tension between personal honor and past deeds.
Evidence in the book
- III
Dick's internal debate between the easy outlaw life and honest work reflects the moral choices central to the chapter.
- VII
Dick reflects on the value of honest work and the peace of a clear conscience, while haunted by memories of wrongdoing.
- The Rescue and Its Aftermath
Jim's refusal of reward and his desire to be honest contrast with the family's criminal entanglements, highlighting the tension between personal honor and past deeds.
- XVII
Contrast between Starlight's cheerful defiance and Dick's remorse; Goring's honest path versus the outlaws'.
- The Trial and Sentencing
Starlight's stoic demeanor and the judge's moral appeal to Dick contrast with the casual community view of cattle theft.
- Jim's Marriage and the New Inspector
Jim's attempt to go straight after marriage, and the moral tension between his past crimes and his desire for a respectable life.
- XXXVIII
Contrasts between cowardly settlers who appease outlaws and gentlemen like Mr. Falkland who uphold duty, as well as Starlight's disdain for those who save themselves at the expense of others.
- XXXIX
Starlight and the Marstons intervene to protect women from Moran's brutality, showing a code of honor despite their outlaw status.
