The bulk of The Secret Keeper takes place during WWII. In what ways does the setting allow the author to show both the frailty and courage of her characters?
Created: 07/09/13
Replies: 6
Join Date: 10/15/10
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Join Date: 03/13/12
Posts: 552
Obviously with the backdrop of The Blitz on London, the reader sees some of the fear of the constant threat of death and the lack of control over one's life. Then again, getting outside of the city setting, life could seem relatively "normal", so the characters could dwell on every-day emotions.
Join Date: 04/02/13
Posts: 109
Any time the backdrop of a story is the destruction of London during the blitz, you will always have characters that show both frailty and great courage. It was the essence of the British people at the time.
Join Date: 04/11/11
Posts: 37
I would concur that in times of great stress such as a war or other calamity, or any event that upsets our norm causes the best and worst of character to be drawn out. I think this setting in particular served as a backdrop to illuminate the consequences of choices.
Join Date: 04/12/12
Posts: 294
Living in London during WWII and the bombings would show the courage of any one carrying on their life during that time. Being under that stress will bring out the best in some people and the worst in others. Sometimes I would think it would bring out both in some people at different times. Dolly was kind to her mistress, but also calculating and self-centered.
Join Date: 07/16/13
Posts: 117
I've read several books set during the wars, and some based on true stories. What I've learned is that no matter what, people do what they must do to survive. Thus, showing their courage. The frailty I think is shown by how quickly life can change in a moment. How one event can unhinge the course of many lives.
Join Date: 12/17/12
Posts: 206
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