The overarching location of this novel (and arguably its main character) is the Thames River, which winds along a large swath of southern England. The primary setting of the novel also encompasses the interior and exterior of the titular “boats,” as well as an assortment of locks, inns, and campsites along the journey. These settings paint a very pastoral image of Britain, as Jerome repeatedly and romantically describes the tranquil beauty and rustic charm of the scenery the “three men” pass through. The author's detailed descriptions of these locations are both a backdrop for the characters' adventures and a love letter by the author to the English countryside.
Jerome also spends time thinking about the cultural norms of England in Three Men in a Boat, reflecting on how the need to perform a particular kind of masculinity and wealth shapes the actions and behavior of his characters. The humor in this novel comes, in large part, from focusing on the idiosyncrasies of the interactions between men. The novel is also particularly concerned with the emerging middle-class leisure culture of the 19th century, in which “gentlemen” who didn’t have to work for a living had to find a way to while away their time. This aspect of the setting is very important, as it underlines the fact that the journey J. and his companions are taking is entirely voluntary. Their versions of leisure and recreation are central to the story, and they’re only able to go on this extended adventure because they have no financial obligation to earn a wage.
The emotional setting of the novel is firmly tied to this idea of leisure; this is a very relaxing book about relaxation. The serene surroundings of the Thames, combined with the leisurely pace of the journey, give the reader a sense of real escapism and occasionally childlike glee. However, Jerome also humorously explores the challenges and frustrations that arise from their interactions with each other. The companionship between the “three men” is also an important part of the novel’s setting, as they create their own little floating community.
