Goodbye, Mr. Chips is set primarily in the early to mid-20th century, specifically from the years just before World War I until the period shortly after World War II. The story revolves around Mr. Chipping, affectionately known as ‘Mr. Chips,’ who is a dedicated schoolteacher at Brookfield, an all-boys boarding school in England.
The narrative begins with Mr. Chips’ early days teaching at Brookfield, highlighting his experiences, relationships, and the various social and historical changes that occur throughout his life. The backdrop of the two world wars plays a crucial role in shaping his character and the lives of his students, making the time period significant to the overall themes of nostalgia, change, and the passage of time.