What is a common characteristic of Southern Gothic literature?

The use of supernatural elements is a defining trait of Southern Gothic literature. This genre often incorporates eerie, macabre, and strange occurrences that serve to highlight deeper social issues, personal conflicts, and the complexities of human behavior. The supernatural can manifest in various forms, such as ghostly presences, eccentric characters, or unexplained phenomena, all of which contribute to the overall atmosphere of unease and tension in the narratives. Authors like Flannery O'Connor and William Faulkner utilize these elements to explore themes of decay, moral ambiguity, and the often dark realities of Southern life, making the supernatural a powerful tool for character development and thematic depth.

The other options do not align with the typical characteristics of Southern Gothic literature. While some Southern authors may touch upon historical events, it is not a defining feature of the genre. Similarly, joyful expressions of rural life and optimistic portrayals of family life are generally not emblematic of Southern Gothic, which more often examines the grotesque and the tragic aspects of existence within Southern society.