Where'd You Go, Bernadette
Maria Semple
Character Analysis
Development
In the beginning of the book, Bernadette's characterization seems to be normal and under control. For example, "That night at dinner, I sat through Mom and Dad's 'We're-so-proud-of-you' and 'She's-a-smart-one' until there was a lull" (8, Semple). This represents how life is cliche and there are minimal problems. However, as time evolves, things start to go down-hill and Bernadette starts to change. To elaborate, Bernadette went to the local pharmacy to pick up motion sickness and anxiety medications, but she fell asleep in the store! This is an example of how Bernadette's life and mind is changing, and how she is becoming ill.
Setting also has a big role as to why Bernadette becomes mentally sick. Most of the book takes place in Seattle, but there is an emphasis on how the family will be taking a cruise to Antartica. This serves as the catalyst for Bernadette's sickness. Moreover, as the cruise gets closer, Bernadette becomes more ill.
In conclusion, characterization and setting show hoe Bernadette's life changes throughout the book, "Where'd You Go, Bernadette" by Maria Semple.