Many of the characters in Light in August bare names that hint at their personality. Joe Christmas gets his name from being found on Christmas day at the orphanage. His name enhances the comparison between Joe and Christ, both of whom are persecuted by society. Based on his name, Joe can be read as a Christ-like figure. His name also adds tragedy to his character. Mr. Hines and Mr. McEachern both see Joe’s name as blasphemous, exacerbating their contempt for Joe, who in turn never finds a supportive father figure. Additionally, Joe Christmas and Joe Brown’s sharing the same first name creates a deeper connection between the two. They share many of the same characteristics and practice similar lifestyles. Giving them the same name helps the reader see how similar they are. The different treatment they receive from Jefferson because one is White and the other is biracial highlights how drastically racism impacts the way different people are treated.

Joanna Burden’s name is also appropriate given her position in Jefferson. Her Yankee heritage reminders her Southern neighbors of their lost war. Her family’s fight for equal rights disrupts the South’s normal way of life.