R.1.1 - Setting

​As we read, we must carefully look at the setting to determine::

• the time and place the story occurs

• the physical, historical, and cultural context of the story

• the effect it has on the characters’ thoughts and actions.

​Setting: the time, place, and circumstances in which something occurs or develops

Plot: the plan of the main story

Characterization: methods a writer uses to reveal a character's values, feelings, and goals to readers - it can be DIRECT or INDIRECT characterization.

​How do these elements interact?

Ask yourself:

• How does the author develop the setting?

• How does the setting affect the characters and their development?

• How does the setting advance the plot?

​Direct Characterization

This is when the author explicitly describes a character's traits.

• Explanation: The narrator or author tells the reader what a character is like.

• Example:
  "Emily was a kind and generous woman who always put others before herself."
  Here, the author directly states Emily’s traits.

​Indirect Characterization

This is when the character's traits are revealed through actions, dialogue, thoughts, or interactions.

• Explanation: The reader must infer what the character is like based on clues provided.

• Example:
  Emily spent her Saturday volunteering at the homeless shelter, sharing her lunch with a stray dog she found on the way.
  Here, the reader infers Emily’s kindness and generosity from her actions.