Definition of setting

Setting in literature refers to the place and time in which the events of a literary work take place. It may be physical, referring to the geographical location where events occur, or psychological, referring to the emotional or mental atmosphere surrounding the characters

In The Lady with a Beard, Alobwed’Epie makes effective use of setting to reveal the cultural practices, beliefs, traditions, and behavioural diversity of the Bakossi people. This is particularly evident as Emade and other characters move from one village to another for different reasons, exposing the reader to different communities, social practices, and attitudes.

The time setting also highlights the period when early Christianity was introduced into Kupe-Muanengouba, sparking different reactions among the people towards its presence since the people were deeply rooted in their culture.  Through the interaction between the traditional beliefs of the people and the emerging Christian faith, the author presents the cultural and religious changes that are taking place within the society.