Francis Marion Tarwater is a fictional character from the novel "The Violent Bear It Away" by author Flannery O'Connor. He is a young boy raised in a rural Southern environment, grappling with his family's religious beliefs and expectations. Tarwater's life is marked by a struggle between his desire for independence and the weight of his family's legacy. Throughout the story, Tarwater experiences a series of events that challenge his understanding of faith and identity. His interactions with other characters, including his uncle Rayber, highlight the conflict between traditional beliefs and modern skepticism, ultimately shaping his journey toward self-discovery.