In "Absalom, Absalom!" William Faulkner portrays the South as a land steeped in history and complex social dynamics. The characters interact amidst the backdrop of the antebellum South, where issues of race, family legacy, and the weight of the past deeply influence their lives. The region is depicted as both beautiful and tragic, filled with lush landscapes yet haunted by the lingering scars of its historical conflicts.

Life in the South, as shown in the novel, revolves around the intricacies of familial bonds and societal expectations. People are deeply connected to their ancestral roots and engage in activities that reflect their heritage, whether through farming, storytelling, or preserving traditions. Faulkner raises profound questions about existence in the South—why its inhabitants choose to stay despite the struggles and why they seek meaning in their lives amid such tumultuous histories.