Student Question
What actions led to Tennessee being hunted by the townspeople?
Quick answer:
Tennessee's actions that led to him being hunted by the townspeople include his reputation as a serial gambler and con artist, culminating in an incident where he waylays a stranger, demanding his gun, money, and knife at gunpoint. While Tennessee's charm often wins people over, the townspeople of Sandy Bar are unforgiving of this act of highway robbery, prompting them to hunt him down.
Tennessee is a serial gambler and con artist. He's always getting into mischief of one kind or another. Though like most con artists he has a winning personality which draws people to him. Even when he runs off with his partner's bride, his partner still forgives him, warmly shaking Tennessee's hand as he returns after the bride has run off with someone else.
But the folks of Sandy Bar are not quite so forgiving. They suspect Tennessee of being a thief; not just a thief, but a highwayman. One day he waylays a stranger on his way to Red Dog. After Tennessee detains him with a few witty anecdotes, Tennessee suddenly brandishes a pistol and demands the stranger's gun, money, and knife. When the folk of Sandy Bar hear about this, they are furious and immediately set out to hunt down Tennessee.
Get Ahead with eNotes
Start your 48-hour free trial to access everything you need to rise to the top of the class. Enjoy expert answers and study guides ad-free and take your learning to the next level.
Already a member? Log in here.