When you are asked to describe setting, you can include the following information in your description. You can also check out this link which will explain more about setting and how it links to theme.
PlaceWhere is the action occurring?
The place where an author or film director chooses to set a story tells the reader/audience a lot about the likely action before anything happens. Examples Set in a forest - suggests danger or evil, a bit spooky Set in a city - anything could happen Set in a nightclub - fun and dancing/gangsters Set in a police station - probably a crime story A snowy landscape (above) is bleak and full of danger but breathtakingly beautiful. |
WeatherThe weather gives the audience/reader a huge clue as to the mood of the story.
Examples Hot and dry = an unbearable uncomfortable situation Wet and windy = misery and characters who are constantly buffeted by the wind are similarly being affected by events that happen. A sunshiny day with lots of people around and things going on suggests energy, new life or romance in the air. |
BuildingsAll the buildings and objects described by an author or shown in a scene convey information to a viewer (or reader). The quality of the building or room, the decor, the furniture and ornaments all indicate the wealth of the character or reflect the society in which they live.
Examples A long brightly lit corridor shows that there is nowhere to hide and everything is exposed. A dark, dingy run down building placed in a remote area indicates a suspicious situation. |
SeasonsThe seasons are also effectively used by directors and authors to indicate a deeper level of meaning to the reader/audience.
Examples A winter scene would suggest that an older person might be about to die or that life is hard. A spring scene suggests fresh new beginnings or romance. Summer brings fun but also perhaps things get too hot or intense and cause tempers to fray. Autumn scenes are visually effective in film and suggest to the viewer that things are changing over time. |
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