Discuss the small-town setting of Broken Country. How did the tight-knit atmosphere of the village contribute to the unfolding drama? Do you think the events of the novel would have played out differently if it weren’t set in a rural farming village?
I actually think that a small town setting was crucial for the story and how it played out. Only in such a small community where everyone knew each other’s business would this have occurred in the way that it did. In a bigger city things that happen behind closed doors don’t become part of the community.
I could just copy and paste what Jan_B said. The setting is essential for high emotions.
I agree with you 100%.
Yes, to all the above responses as well as mentioning that the historical impact of the “higher” society that existed in Gabriel’s family and as past landowners impacted village life. Having taught in a small town, one student described his mom as the “biggest grape on the gossip grapevine.” Now that I live in huge metroplex I don’t hear a thing; however, I bet there are social circles here in Dallas that thrive on the doings of others. “What are the Jones’ doing now?!!!”
I agree with Jan, this story could only work in a small town setting.
The small town atmosphere played a role in everyone’s interaction. I think an urban setting would have been different.
I think the small town, farming village setting can be seen as an important motivator that moves the story forward. The folks at the pub, especially, fueled the brothers’ anger at Gabriel.
I didn’t really think about the small town setting as I was reading the book, but I agree that the repercussion wouldn’t have been the same if it were in an urban setting.
If it was set in a city where everyone minds their own business, the affair would not have been noticed and a tree would not have fallen on Bobby.