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Literary Analysis: Analyze Setting and Character
Academic Vocabulary

  • • element (e-lu-munt) noun An element is a basic part of a whole.

Setting and character are important elements of fiction. Characters have traits, or special features, like kindness or courage. They also have motives, or reasons for their thoughts and actions. The setting and the characters’ traits and motives affect the events in a story.

Practice Together

Read this story. Think about how the setting and the characters’ traits and motives affect what happens.

In 1850 the trip from Missouri to Oregon took months. The Jensons packed their tiny wagon with food and other necessities. They also brought a few things to remind them of home.

After a few days on the trail, Mr. Jenson saw that the wagon was overloaded. He hesitated but then asked his wife for help. Mrs. Jenson took out a heavy box of fine dishes. She lifted the lid gently and touched a delicate dish painted with pink flowers. Then she wiped away her tears and placed the box on the muddy trail.

Make a Chart Make a Character Chart like the one below. Complete it for Mrs. Jenson. Then imagine how the events would be different if the Jensons were traveling from Missouri to Oregon today. Discuss how the events are linked to the setting.

Character Chart
CharacterTraitsMotivesActions
Mr. Jensonpracticalwants to get to Oregonhas to unload wagon, asks his wife for help
Mrs. Jenson

Try It!

Work with a partner. Make a Character Chart for the characters in the story “Earthquake.” How do the setting and the characters’ traits and motives affect what happens?