The Bedford Glossary of Critical and Literary Terms - Ross Murfin 2018

Setting

Setting: The combination of place, historical time, and social milieu that provides the general background for the characters and plot of a literary work. The general setting of a work may differ from the specific setting of an individual scene or event; nonetheless, specific settings may be said to contribute to the overall setting. In drama, setting may refer to the physical backdrop of the play, that is, the scenery and sometimes even the props. Setting frequently plays a crucial role in determining the atmosphere of a work.