The document summarizes the setting of The Phantom of the Opera. It takes place in 1880s Paris, primarily at the Paris Opera House, which was completed in 1875 at a cost of 47 million francs. Below the opera house are many dark and confusing passageways, as well as a lake used to stabilize the large building. The story depicts 19th century Parisian high society that prided itself on not working and centered their lives around grand balls, art, and opera.