1. Time:
* Historical period: When does the story take place? Is it in the present, the past, or the future?
* Specific year/era: A more precise time frame. For example, 1920s, the Victorian era, or the year 2050.
* Time of day: Morning, afternoon, night, or a specific time like 3:15 pm.
* Season: Spring, summer, fall, or winter.
* Weather: Sunny, rainy, stormy, etc.
* Duration of the story: The amount of time covered by the story.
2. Place:
* Location: Where does the story take place? This could be a specific place like a city, town, building, or a more general location like a forest or a desert.
* Geography: The physical features of the location, such as mountains, rivers, or oceans.
* Culture: The social, political, and economic characteristics of the place.
* Atmosphere: The overall feeling or mood of the setting. Is it gloomy, cheerful, mysterious, etc.?
3. Social Context:
* Social norms: The rules and expectations of the society.
* Political climate: The political landscape of the time.
* Economic conditions: The state of the economy.
* Technological advancements: The level of technology available.
The Importance of Setting:
* Sets the scene: Provides the backdrop for the story.
* Develops atmosphere and mood: Creates a specific feeling for the reader.
* Impacts the characters: Shapes their actions and motivations.
* Drives the plot: Can create conflict, tension, and opportunities for change.
* Creates a sense of realism: Makes the story feel more believable.
Examples:
* The Great Gatsby: The Roaring Twenties, Long Island, New York, lavish parties, and wealth.
* To Kill a Mockingbird: The American South in the 1930s, a small town, racial prejudice, and the Great Depression.
* Harry Potter: The magical world of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, with its own rules, customs, and creatures.