Wesley Hayden, a character serving as sheriff in the 1948 novel Montana, is a strong and moral character, who plays many roles throughout the text. Restrained by his physical weakness, his mental and moral strengths enforce the law. Although he constantly works for the benefit of the community, even his own son, David, initially views him as less than a typical sheriff, as he does not display the conventional masculinity often associated with his role. Wesley, at the beginning of the book, very quickly, his limp is pointed out. His limp suggests that he is weakened, that he lacks strength in the face of criminals. Perhaps allowing his brother to escape blame for as long as he did. This represents his status as a "fallen hero", but also shows his determination to bring justice, peace and equality to the community, despite his weakness. By emphasizing Wesley's weakness and physical barriers, Larry Watson highlights the character's strengths, mentally and morally. Readers quickly understand that Wesley's unconventional use of the role was a positive aspect of his character, showing Wesley's role as a moral figure; This shows that he resolves crimes and problems through negotiation, as an alternative to threats or violence. His son, however, does not realize this, and this is clearly demonstrated by Wesley's gun. A “small .32 automatic, Italian made and no bigger than your palm,” the gun pales in comparison to what young David thought his father, as sheriff, should have used, a “lot western nickel plated .45”. Used only in emergencies, even the small gun was only used as a symbol of Wesley's role as sheriff, as Wesley never needed or chose to use it. When his brother, Frank Hayden, is revealed to be a serial criminal... middle of paper...... right. The law is based on equality, and although it is often wrong in a city of racism, he pursues the case against Frank, because he must uphold the word of this law; Not only was he choosing to sue on behalf of a character who, in the novel, was considered by many to be racially inferior, but he was also suing his own brother, a man famous for his heroism. In conclusion, Wesley Hayden is a strong character. , who constantly defends his morals in the face of racial and sexual inequalities. Despite a superficial weakness, that of his limp, he was a stronger sheriff than his son saw him. He was morally sound and respectful. Wesley also showed himself to be a compassionate and caring man, a courageous protector. Although he lacks the masculinity shown by the other male characters in the novel, this has not been shown to negatively impact his integrity..