What is meant by horse and foot in the story A Rose for Emily William Faulkner?

In William Faulkner's "A Rose for Emily," the phrase "horse and foot" refers to the method of transportation used by the townspeople when they go to pay their respects to Emily Grierson after her death. It highlights the sense of community and tradition that still existed in the South even in the early 20th century.

Here's a breakdown:

* Horse: In the time period of the story, horse-drawn carriages were a common mode of transport, particularly in rural areas like the fictional town of Jefferson.

* Foot: This indicates that some people walked to Emily's house, likely those who lived nearby or who couldn't afford to hire a carriage.

Faulkner uses this phrase to show how the townspeople, despite their differing social standing, were united in their grief and their desire to pay their respects to Emily. It also contributes to the story's atmosphere of a bygone era and the way in which tradition and social norms still held a strong grip on the community.

The phrase "horse and foot" acts as a subtle reminder that even though the world was changing, certain things remained constant, like the deep respect the townspeople had for Emily, regardless of her eccentricities. It reinforces the theme of the clash between the past and present, which permeates the entire story.