Saturday, June 28, 2014

In what ways can setting contribute to the meaning of a story?

The term setting does not merely refer to a physical/geographical location in fiction or drama. It more widely refers to the atmosphere/ambience which governs the plot/narrative, and may also influence/mould characters in action.


The moorlands in Emily Bronte's novel, Wuthering Heights or the Egdon Heath in Hardy's novel, The Return of the Native is obviously much more than a place where things happen. The place in each novel becomes an abiding force to make things happen, a place invested with a will or design of its own.


Porphyria's lover waiting all alone indoors on a stormy & rain-soaked evening in Browning's dramatic monologue, Porphyria's lover must have been influenced by the setting which includes the indoor space as much as the storm and rain.


The cul-de-sac, North Richmond Street, in Dublin & the dark muddy lanes in its surroundings play a very significant role in Joyce's story, Araby.

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