Question

What is a common characteristic of Southern Gothic literature? Select all that apply.

Answer 1

Answer:

  Set only in the South.

  Disturbed and twisted characters who are outcasts.

Explanation:

  Southern Gothic literature was a style of writing used by the American South and the stories were set in that region.

  Common themes of that type of literature were about disturbed and deeply flawed characters involved in Hoodoo, grotesque situations and events related to poverty, violence, and crime.

  Some of the most known authors of this style are Tennessee Williams, Truman Capote and Carson McCullers.

  I hope this answer helps you.

Answer 2

"Southern gothic literature" is a term used to encompass a particular strain of literature from the American South. It originated in the 19th century, evolving from American Gothic, which in turn, evolved from English Gothic literature. Its characteristics include irrational, horrific and transgressive thoughts, grotesque characters, dark humor. This genre is rooted in the South's tensions and aberrations related to slavery, racism and patriarchy.

Therefore, the characteristics that would apply are:

• set only in the South, (although there are some examples that are considered within this genre but the setting is not  a recognizable southern one, such as some Poe's poems)
• romanticized southern life and culture
• disturbed and twisted characters