Theo is set in Greece during the Second World War; the story begins in the capital city of Greece, Athens, and ends in a village situated north of Athens, Vasilaki. Although, the setting is faithfully described and presented, the use of the setting in Theo is distinctive and different from that of other novels set in and about Greece. The setting is used as a theatrical stage, as a backdrop to the action taking place. This is specifically described in the second chapter: "Mountains surround Athens, forming a natural amphitheater. The stage itself, the theater proper gives rise to six hills.... Each day the sun floods the promontories with light."

The setting enhances and illuminates the characters. It gives color and flavor to the story line and aids in the creation of atmosphere and mood. It complements the plot and transmits a flavor of the country in which...