I do believe those are correct.
half shy half assertive - stage direction
This is a metaphor. unlike a simile, for example, Brave as a fox comma it does not use like or as. the definition of a metaphor is, a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable
I am pretty sure that themes on which William Folkner focuses and takes as a basis of his masterpieces are definitely : love, honor, compassion, and sacrifice. First of all, there is a prompt in question that is put in quotation marks. Love and compassion are the points which always were in need for people's relationships and honor with sacrifice, as told by Folkner in many of his works, are connected to more global sphere of demand - they are universal issues.
