In Peace Like A River does Rueben think Davy is a murderer or does he think it was self-defense?

Question

Does he want Davy brought justice or does he think justice has already been served? How does this link loyalty?

Answer 1

I believe Reuben is somewhat conflicted on this matter.

He does feel that Davy was just protecting Suede, but he also is young and has that whole "he is my brother and I love him so everything he does must be right" thing going on.  All in all, I think he believes Davy was doing the right thing by protecting his little sister and that there really isn't any justice to be served.  As for loyalty...I think the night when Reuben visits his brother at that man's house in the woods shows the loyalty between the two.  Davy sticks up for Reuben when he starts having breathing troubles and begins to take on the role of the older brother almost immediately.