Local characters and the community : a case study of tradition and individual nonconformity in the Maritimes

Abstract

This study is an examination of the local character phenomenon within one Maritime community. Based on the town's cast of past and present characters, the study discusses what the label means and how it is applied. It explores the relationship between character and community from a number of aspects including the designation's value for the character; the nature and functions of local character anecdotes; characters' contributions to community folklore and dynamics; and official culture uses of character performances.