Final answer:
The setting of 'Rebecca' is crucial to its plot, reflecting historic class distinctions and gender roles. While these aspects have evolved, universal themes like jealousy and identity could translate to a 21st-century American setting with some alterations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The book Rebecca, by Daphne du Maurier, resides in a specific setting and time that contribute significantly to the plot. To evaluate whether the plot could be transplanted to America in the 21st century, one must consider the cultural and societal nuances that have changed or remained the same over time.
Initially, the setting of Rebecca in a grand English estate is pivotal to the story. This setting reflects a time when class distinctions were prominent and estates like Manderley were symbols of power and legacy. In modern America, while class distinctions persist, the exact manifestation of wealth and power has diverged, and sprawling estates are less common symbols of this.
Moreover, the gender roles depicted in Rebecca are deeply rooted in the time it was written. The expectations for women and marriage have evolved considerably since then. The dynamic between the characters would likely change in a modern American setting, where women have a more assertive role in society.
However, the themes of jealousy, identity crisis, and the haunting impact of the past are universal and could certainly translate to a modern setting. Even in the 21st century, individuals grapple with these challenges. The core emotions and relational tensions could resonate with a contemporary audience, though the specific circumstances might require alteration for plausibility.