Landscapes and Literature: A Look at the Early Twentieth Century Rural South

Abstract

This article examines samples of southern literature from the first half of the twentieth century that can be used to understand geographically the rural landscapes of the Coastal Plain from North Carolina through Mississippi. The socioeconomic imprint upon the land, climatic perceptions, and the role of the forest are themes addressed. The advantages and significance of using a literary approach are also discussed.

Key Words:

• rural southern landscapes
• literary place
• literature
• icons