Final answer:
Sam appears to be a respected member of his community through his respectful personality towards parents and elders, his trustworthiness and loyalty, as well as his involvement and influence in community affairs.
His conduct in various narratives suggests a positive reputation and a character that embodies principles respected by others.
Step-by-step explanation:
Whether Sam is a respected member of his community can be inferred through various literary references and descriptions provided.
For instance, in one narrative, it’s indicated that Sam is known for being respectful of parents and elders, which typically correlates with community respect. Additionally, the portrayal of Sam as being loyal and trustworthy to the regional government further suggests a positive standing within the community.
Another example comes from Sam’s introduction to a class in Civilization, where his position exerts an authoritative and guiding influence, potentially reflecting a degree of respect.
Furthermore, the story of Young Owens recounting a trial to Charity Lomax shows Sam as a symbol of principle within the community.
However, it is also important to note the complexity of Sam's character; for example, in one instance, the character Sammy displays courage in facing his father’s inquiries, which could contribute to the perception of respect.
Similarly, in the last excerpt, the character Sammy exhibits a sense of responsibility by ensuring the family observes their custom of saying grace before a meal. These examples demonstrate attributes typically associated with esteemed community members.