Final answer:
The upright farmer is a dignified individual who refuses charity even when in need, a reflection of the socioeconomic troubles faced by rural communities, particularly when societal structures do not offer support.
Step-by-step explanation:
The character in question is an upright farmer, portrayed as a man of principles who refuses to accept charity despite his dire circumstances. This farmer faces a paradox; society views him as too prosperous to merit aid because he has sheep grazing on the uplands, yet he is unable to secure enough provisions for his own needs. The complexity of his position is highlighted by his interactions with the parish and others who judge his eligibility for assistance based on his property ownership, rather than his actual situation. The text reflects on the moral and economic struggles that farmers have historically faced, particularly when societal structures fail to support them in times of need.
The excerpts describe the farmer's plight amidst the yearly cycle of farming, his dignified refusal of charity, and the socioeconomic struggles that rural communities often encounter. Notably, the passages evoke themes of pride, poverty, and the harsh realities of farm life, ultimately painting a portrait of a farmer whose love for his property and his children creates a painful conflict when he is denied aid.