Structure

An analysis of the short story “Jubilee” by Carys Davies shows that the text has a non-chronological structure. The events take place over a few hours, from Queen Victoria’s arrival in the town to her departure at the train station. 

The story begins in medias res when Arthur Pritt, the town alderman, whispers in Queen Victoria’s ear:

Standing now at her shoulder, no longer caring much about his future, Arthur Pritt began to speak. In a quiet voice he apologised for the tediousness of the day, for the marching bands and the pipers, for the choirs and the speeches and the dreadful cacophony of the Morris dancers on the cobbles; for the boring gifts. (ll. 1-4)

The beginning of the story introduces the main character, Arthur Pritt, and hints to readers that Arthur is participating in a celebration of an important person. However, it is not until line 23 that readers...