Eccentricity in a literary sense is defined as deviation from the societal norm with especially odd or whimsical behavior. Eccentric behavior is defined by nonconformity, creativity, outspokenness, intelligence, idealism, and obsessions. Characters who exhibit these traits or other nonstandard behaviors stand out against others. They have loud personalities and sometimes behave in taboo ways highlighting the social norms and expectations present in the south by directly contrasting them. In society people are expected to dress a certain way, speak a certain way, carry themselves a certain way, get married and have children at the right age, stay with their partner after marriage, and treat elders with high respect. Literary works of the southern gothic movement are often set in rural areas on the fringes of society. The isolation creates a unique relationship between the characters and their location. This relationship often draws out nuanced elements of southern culture that are otherwise hidden away.