The Compson family is a fictional family from William Faulkner's novels, particularly featured in "The Sound and the Fury" and "Absalom, Absalom!" They live in the Southern United States, specifically in the town of Jefferson, Mississippi. The family is known for its decline from a once-prominent status, reflecting themes of decay and loss in the post-Civil War South. Key members of the Compson family include Jason Compson, the father, and his children: Benjy, Caddy, Quentin, and Jason Jr.. Each character grapples with personal struggles and the family's deteriorating legacy, showcasing the complexities of their relationships and the impact of societal changes on their lives.