Question

Choose one literary selection from this semester in which you think the setting has a great impact on the work. In a full essay, name the work, describe the setting, and explain why it is so important to the overall story or poem. Choices are 'Thoughts of Hanoi', 'the swimming contest', 'the ramayana', 'my father writes to my mother', 'another evening at the club', 'behind the veil', 'a way of talking', 'like the sun', 'five hours to simla', 'the women's baths', or 'the tall woman and her short husband'

Answer 1

[AI-generated answer — Bot GPT 3.5]

The literary selection I have chosen is "Behind the Veil" by Dervla Murphy. The setting of this work takes place in the remote and conservative country of Afghanistan. The story follows the author's journey through the country, encountering the strict cultural and societal norms which are imposed upon the women who live there. The setting of Afghanistan plays a crucial role in shaping the overall story of "Behind the Veil."

The conservative and patriarchal society in Afghanistan is evident throughout the story, as women are limited in their freedoms and rights. The setting of Afghanistan serves as a backdrop for the author to explore the struggles faced by women in a society where they are expected to adhere to strict gender roles and traditions. The physical landscape of the country, with its rugged terrain and isolated villages, further contributes to the sense of confinement and oppression experienced by the women in the story.

Moreover, the setting of Afghanistan provides a stark contrast to the author's own background and beliefs. As a Western woman traveling through a country with vastly different cultural norms, the setting of Afghanistan allows the author to reflect on her own privilege and perspective, while also highlighting the challenges faced by the women she encounters. The juxtaposition of cultures and values adds depth and complexity to the story, making the setting essential to its overall impact.

In conclusion, the setting of Afghanistan in "Behind the Veil" is crucial to the story as it shapes the narrative, highlights the struggles of the women in the society, and provides a contrast for the author's own experiences. The unique cultural and societal norms of Afghanistan add depth and complexity to the work, making it a powerful exploration of gender, tradition, and identity.