Importance Of Setting In Elizabeth E. Wein's Code Name Withstand
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The setting of Elizabeth E. Wein’s Code Name Verity centers on one of the novel’s protagonists, Maddie, as she flies throughout the British coast for the first time. While the narration stems from third person omniscient, the use of tone and imagery transports the reader alongside the young pilot. Flying becomes a mechanical practice that offers Maddie a sense of freedom from adulthood. Her first flying experience encapsulates the shift from childhood to young adulthood. Childhood memories stem from literary references, such as Arthur Ransome’s Swallows and Amazons, J.M Barrie’s Peter Pan and Beatrix Potter’s The Tale of Peter Rabbit, encourage adventure and curiosity. It also provokes an intense emotional response from Maddie. Whilst above Britain’s Northumbrian coast, Wein writes, “the poet’s…show more content… She fears World War II will destroy the nation she grew up in, permitting it “…to be swallowed in nights of flame and blackout,” (Page ). Location is essential in this passage, as Maddie describes the British coast. While she is flying in the air, Wein writes, “She flew over the great castle crags of Lindisfarne and Bamburgh to the north and south, and over the ruins of the twelfth century priory, and over all the fields stretching yellow and green toward the low Cheviot Hills of Scotland,” (). This is the quintessential essence of British scenery and a vivid portrayal to the reader. Furthermore, it cements the significance of British history with references to sites such as Hadrian’s Wall reflects Roman antiquity and Cheviot Hills of Scotland. Paired with the usage of ornate language, such as “soaring mountains,” and “waters glittered,” the author creates an idyllic, picturesque image of Britain and evokes national pride (). The importance of location links with Maddie’s national identity as a British pilot but affects her personal