The prime meridian, the imaginary line that marks 0 degrees longitude, has long held significance in many literary works. From being the center of world maps to symbolizing the divide between the East and West, the prime meridian has been used in various ways by authors to add depth and meaning to their stories. Here are a few literary works that are set at the prime meridian, showcasing the versatility and importance of this imaginary line.

One of the most famous literary works set at the prime meridian is Jules Verne’s classic novel “Around the World in Eighty Days”. Published in 1873, this adventure novel follows the journey of English gentleman Phileas Fogg and his valet Passepartout as they attempt to circumnavigate the world in just 80 days. The prime meridian plays a crucial role in their journey as they use it as the starting point for their trip and also set their watch according to the time at this longitude. The concept of time and its relation to the prime meridian is a recurring theme throughout the book, emphasizing the importance of this imaginary line in global navigation.

Another notable literary work that is set at the prime meridian is Christopher Priest’s science fiction novel “The Prestige”. Published in 1995, this novel tells the story of two rival magicians, Alfred Borden and Rupert Angier, and their obsession with creating the ultimate illusion. The prime meridian is used as a symbol in this novel, representing the division between science and magic, as well as the divide between the two magicians. Borden, who represents science and rationality, lives on the east side of the prime meridian while Angier, who is more mystical and traditional, lives on the west side. This conflict between the two characters and their differing ideologies is mirrored by the division of the prime meridian.

In her critically acclaimed novel “A Thousand Splendid Suns”, author Khaled Hosseini uses the prime meridian to illustrate the cultural and societal divide between the East and West. Set in Afghanistan, the story follows the lives of two women, Mariam and Laila, who are from different generations and backgrounds but are brought together by fate. The prime meridian acts as a physical representation of the characters’ struggles, as they are torn between their traditional Afghan roots and the Western influence that comes with modernization. The prime meridian serves as a reminder of the clash between the two cultures and the hardships faced by those caught in the middle.

Lastly, another literary work that prominently features the prime meridian is Neil Gaiman’s fantasy novel “Stardust”. Published in 1999, this novel is set in the fictional English village of Wall, located near the border between England and Faerie. When young Tristan Thorn sets out to retrieve a fallen star for the woman he loves, he is taken on a journey through Faerie, a magical world that is separated from England by the prime meridian. The prime meridian symbolizes the boundary between the ordinary world and the fantastical, adding to the otherworldly atmosphere of the novel.

In conclusion, the prime meridian has been used in various literary works to add depth and meaning to the story. From being a starting point for journeys to symbolizing cultural and societal divides, the prime meridian has proven to be a versatile and significant element in literature. These examples are just a few of the many literary works that have been set at this imaginary line, making it all the more evident that the influence of the prime meridian reaches far beyond just being a geographical marker on maps.