The setting of The Prince and the Pauper is primarily in 16th century England during the reign of King Henry VIII. The narrative begins in London, where we are introduced to the stark contrast between the lives of the wealthy and the impoverished. The story revolves around the chance encounter between two boys: Edward, the Prince of Wales, and Tom Canty, a pauper.
London serves as a vivid backdrop, with its bustling streets filled with both opulence and squalor. The detailed descriptions of the crown’s splendor and the misery faced by the common folk highlight the social disparities of the time. This setting plays a crucial role in illustrating the themes of class distinction and identity throughout the book. By exploring the two boys’ experiences in both the lavish royal palace and the poor neighborhoods, the narrative emphasizes the inequalities present in society.