Instruction
500 words
The historical setting, or the enveloping action of the story, directs Phoenix Jackson’s behavior, and if we know the enveloping action, we can deepen our understanding of Phoenix Jackson’s actions and the conflict she’s facing. In other words, Phoenix Jackson faces certain obstacles in the plot and physical setting of the story (e.g., a worn path, a long walk, meeting a stranger), but these physical obstacles become even more challenging when we understand the enveloping action surrounding the plot or, in other words, the social context.
For example, imagine “A Worn Path” set in contemporary America. For your response, analyze whether you think the characters would face the same obstacles if the story were set in some location in contemporary America. Specifically speaking, do you think a person could walk into a hospital and have the same experience that Phoenix has? Could this story be written about today?