This question is based on Emily Bronte's Wuthering Heights The setting of the novel is

Analyze the question: You are asked when the events of Wuthering Heights take place. Note that this is the setting (when the story happens), not when the book was published.

Explain the concept: Emily Brontë published the novel in 1847, but the story is told as a frame narrative. Mr. Lockwood arrives at Thrushcross Grange in 1801 and hears the history from Nelly Dean. Nelly's account goes back to 1771, when Mr. Earnshaw brings the orphan Heathcliff home to Wuthering Heights. The story then continues through two generations (the Earnshaws, Lintons, Heathcliff, and then Cathy, Hareton and Linton) until about 1802.

Step-by-step solution:

1. Publication date: 1847. This is the mid 19th century, but it is not the setting.
2. Opening of the narrative (Lockwood's visit): 1801.
3. Start of the main story (Heathcliff's arrival): 1771.
4. The events therefore span roughly 1771 to 1802, which is the late 18th century into the very early 19th century.
5. Among the options, the closest to this period is "mid 18th century" (C), since the story begins in the 1770s and most of the main action takes place in the later 1700s. The 16th and 17th century options are far too early, and the 19th century option confuses the publication date with the setting.

Note on the wording: Strictly, 1771-1802 is more "late 18th century" than "mid 18th century".

Answer: C. Mid 18th century

Exam tip: Always separate the date of publication (1847) from the time setting (1771-1802). JAMB often tests whether you can tell these apart. Remember: "Heathcliff arrives in 1771, Lockwood visits in 1801."