The Green Mile takes place in a death row prison block in Louisiana during the 1930s. This setting is central to the story, as it focuses on the lives of the guards and the inmates awaiting execution. The narrative unfolds primarily within the confines of Cold Mountain Penitentiary, which serves as a backdrop for the exploration of themes such as compassion, humanity, and the moral complexities of capital punishment.
The cramped and oppressive atmosphere of the prison, especially in the ‘Green Mile’ corridor where the electric chair is located, amplifies the emotional weight of the events that transpire. The characters’ interactions and the unfolding drama are deeply influenced by this stark and confined environment, making it an integral part of the overall narrative. Stephen King, the author, masterfully uses this setting to highlight the various dimensions of life, death, and justice.