Light in August is a novel by William Faulkner, published in 1932. It is set in the fictional town of Jefferson, Mississippi, in the early 20th century. The novel follows the lives of several characters, including Lena Grove, a pregnant young woman searching for the father of her unborn child; Joe Christmas, an orphan with a mysterious past; and Reverend Gail Hightower, a minister struggling with his faith.
The novel begins with Lena Grove, a young woman from Alabama, who is searching for the father of her unborn child. She meets a man named Lucas Burch, who claims to be the father, and they travel together to Jefferson, Mississippi. Along the way, they encounter Joe Christmas, an orphan with a mysterious past. Joe is a drifter who has been living in Jefferson for some time, and he is deeply troubled by his past.
Meanwhile, Reverend Gail Hightower is struggling with his faith. He is haunted by memories of his dead wife and his own inability to save her. He is also struggling with his own doubts about the existence of God.
The novel follows the lives of these characters as they intersect and intertwine. Lena and Lucas eventually marry, and Joe Christmas is arrested for the murder of a local woman. Reverend Hightower is called to testify at Joe's trial, and he is forced to confront his own doubts about God and justice.
The novel culminates in a powerful climax as Joe Christmas is sentenced to death for the murder. Lena and Lucas are left to pick up the pieces of their lives, and Reverend Hightower is left to grapple with his faith.
Light in August is a powerful and moving novel that explores themes of faith, justice, and the human condition. It is a timeless classic that has been praised for its vivid characters and its exploration of the human experience.