Blog post #3: Setting

In Prufrock, Austen, and Shakespeare, each setting similarly is a contributing factor to the background of the story.  Without a setting, a literary works is essentially incomplete.  A setting is key to understanding the motives of the author, and even the characters themselves.  A setting may also provide insight on what a character might do next.  In Prufrock, the setting is post-WW1.  Therefore, taking the setting into consideration, the reader can understand Prufrock's excessively grim diction and use of literary devices.  In Shakespeare, the setting is in a very religious time period.  Therefore, many of the characters actions can be foretold when taking the setting into consideration.  For example, Hamlet's decision to spare Cladius' life when he was praying was based on a religious belief of the time period.  In Austen, the setting is in 19th century English society, which explains the patriarchal aspect of society.  In Austen, the setting would explain things such as Mr. Collins proposal to Liz, Charlotte Lucas' decision to get married, and Mrs. Bennet's outlook on life.