P1+Erica+H

Southern Gothic/ Grotesque



Erica Harris

Southern Gothic literature is an extension to the regular traditions on the Gothic genre. According to Niki Foster, a literature analyst, “Southern Gothic literature often deals with the plight of those who are ostracized or oppressed by traditional Southern culture - blacks, women, and gays, for example”(WiseGeeks). The Southern Gothic movement started in England in the 18th century and made its way down to the American South. The genre is unusual in that it focuses mainly on one geographical area, namely the South. The genre is known for its damaged and delusional characters. Southern Gothic ignores supernatural occurrences and deals with the mental health of the people. Instead of the romanticized image of the Southern Belle, the genre brings out the melodrama in the characters. Many stories can be about unrequited love leading to madness or about repressed homosexuals who drink too much and break up their marriages.

WORK CITED Foster, Niki. "What is the Southern Gothic Movement in Literature?" //Wise Geek//. Conjecture Corperation, 6 Aug. 2009. Web. 1 Dec. 2009.