Question

Which best describes how the characteristically American setting shapes both stories?

a) It accentuates the cultural differences.
b) It has no impact on the stories.
c) It is irrelevant to the stories.
d) It influences the themes and events in the stories.

Answer 1

The American setting in stories typically influences the themes and events, reflecting the wider social and cultural context, which is essential for plot and character development.

Step-by-step explanation:

The characteristically American setting in stories is often integral to their themes and events. This is because the setting doesn't only encompass the physical aspects of time and place, but also includes the social and cultural context. For instance, the setting of 'Gone With The Wind' provides crucial historical context for the characters' actions and societal dynamics, therefore influencing themes and events. Similarly, Edgar Allan Poe's 'The Fall of the House of Usher' uses setting not just as a backdrop but as an essential element reflecting characters' internal states, affecting both the mood and the development of the plot. Therefore, option d) It influences the themes and events in the stories best describes how the American setting shapes both stories.