Environment vs. Setting

Attribute	Environment	Setting
Physical surroundings	Natural or man-made surroundings where something exists or takes place	The time and place in which a story takes place
Atmosphere	The mood or feeling of a place	The overall mood or feeling of a story
Climate	The prevailing weather conditions in a specific area	The general emotional tone or mood of a story
Geography	The physical features of a specific area	The physical location and layout of a story
Character interaction	How characters interact with their surroundings	How characters interact with the world around them

When discussing literature, two terms that often come up are environment and setting. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are distinct differences between the two concepts. In this article, we will explore the attributes of environment and setting, and how they contribute to the overall atmosphere of a story.

Definition

Environment refers to the surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates. It encompasses both the physical and social aspects of a particular place. On the other hand, setting specifically refers to the time and place in which a story takes place. While environment is more broad and inclusive, setting is more focused and specific.

Scope

Environment can include a wide range of elements such as climate, geography, culture, and society. It is the overall backdrop against which a story unfolds. Setting, on the other hand, is more limited in scope and typically refers to the specific location and time period in which the events of a story occur. While environment sets the stage for a story, setting provides the context for the plot and characters.

Impact

Both environment and setting play a crucial role in shaping the mood and tone of a story. The environment can create a sense of atmosphere and establish the overall feel of a narrative. For example, a story set in a dystopian future will have a very different environment than one set in a quaint small town. Similarly, the setting can influence the characters' actions and motivations. A story set in a bustling city will have different dynamics than one set in a remote village.

Characterization

Environment and setting can also be used to develop and characterize the individuals in a story. The environment in which a character lives can reveal a lot about their personality, values, and beliefs. For example, a character who lives in a luxurious mansion may be portrayed as wealthy and privileged, while a character who lives in a rundown apartment may be seen as struggling or disadvantaged. Similarly, the setting can impact how characters interact with each other and their surroundings.

Symbolism

Both environment and setting can be used symbolically to convey deeper meanings in a story. The environment can symbolize themes such as nature vs. civilization, freedom vs. confinement, or chaos vs. order. For example, a story set in a dense forest may symbolize the unknown and the untamed, while a story set in a bustling city may symbolize progress and modernity. Similarly, the setting can symbolize the characters' internal struggles or external conflicts.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while environment and setting are closely related concepts, they have distinct attributes that contribute to the overall richness and depth of a story. Environment encompasses the broader context in which a story takes place, while setting provides the specific time and place. Both elements play a crucial role in shaping the mood, tone, and characterization of a narrative. By understanding the differences between environment and setting, writers can create more immersive and compelling stories that resonate with readers.