1. Southern Gothic Literature
Gothic Fiction meets the Postbellum South

2. Characteristics/Elements of Gothic Style
Gloomy, eerie settings
eccentric and grotesque characters
sense of dreadful mystery and ghostly hauntedness
death offers an opportunity for realization or clarity
Can you think of any stories you’ve read that fit this description?

3. Themes to Focus On: Identity The Individual
Conflicts between older & newer generations

4. “A Rose for Emily” by William Faulkner (1930)
Before reading this story, consider whether or not you agree with the following statements. Discuss with your group:
1. Literature often shapes or reflects society.
2. A writer's responsibility is to address the problems of the human heart in conflict with itself.
3. What lies below the surface of the text is irrelevant.
4. Authors sometimes intentionally leave details inconsistent or open-ended.
5. Stories must start at the beginning and finish at the end.
6. It is wrong to analyze something that the author didn't include in the story on purpose.
7. A person's appearance and behavior shows what a person is like.
8. Love conquers all, always.
9. If you reach your goal, the end always justifies the means.
10. There are some people that the law does not apply to.

5. “A Rose for Emily” by William Faulkner (1930)
As you read the story with your group, annotate for:
gothic elements
setting
characterization
plot
symbols:
hair
the house c. colors

6. Done Reading? Discuss the 5 Study Questions with your group!
Offer thoughtful responses that use at least one quote per question.
When done, place in the appropriate tray in front.
KEEP THE STORY!