Historical Setting:
* Time Period: The story is set in 1787, during the time of the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
* Location: The novel primarily takes place in Philadelphia, specifically in the home of Benjamin Franklin, where the fictional character, Abigail, resides as a servant.
* Key Historical Events: The novel references the drafting of the Constitution and the debates surrounding it, particularly the issues of slavery and representation.
Historical Figures:
* Benjamin Franklin: While not the central character, Benjamin Franklin plays a significant role as a mentor and friend to Abigail. The novel captures some aspects of his personality and his involvement in the Constitutional Convention.
* Other Historical Figures: The novel also mentions other prominent figures of the era, including Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and James Madison, although their appearances are limited.
Historical Details:
* Social Hierarchy: The novel depicts the social hierarchy of the time, highlighting the stark differences between the lives of wealthy elites and their servants.
* Life in Early America: The novel provides insights into the daily lives of people in Philadelphia during this period, including their clothing, food, and living conditions.
Important to Note:
* Historical Accuracy: While the novel uses historical events and figures as a backdrop, it should not be considered a definitive historical account. The story is ultimately fictional, and the author takes creative liberties with historical details.
* Fictional Characters: The primary characters in the novel, Abigail and her brother, are entirely fictional. Their interactions with historical figures are part of the author's fictional narrative.
Therefore, "The Staircase" provides a glimpse into the historical context of late 18th-century America, but it's important to remember that it's a work of fiction. The novel's primary focus is on the fictional story of Abigail and her journey, using the historical setting and figures as a backdrop for her personal experiences.