Here's how Panem is used in the story:
* Symbol of oppression: Panem represents a system of oppression where the Capitol exploits and controls the districts, forcing them to live in poverty and fear. The Hunger Games themselves are a brutal reminder of the Capitol's power and its willingness to use violence to maintain control.
* Setting for the Hunger Games: The Hunger Games are held within Panem as a televised spectacle. The districts are forced to send two tributes (one boy and one girl) to fight to the death in an arena filled with deadly challenges.
* Dividing the nation: The Capitol uses the Hunger Games to create a divide between the districts, pitting them against each other while maintaining control. This division is emphasized by the way the Capitol portrays the districts, often using derogatory stereotypes.
* Rebellion and resistance: As the series progresses, Panem becomes the stage for a rebellion against the Capitol's tyranny. The districts, united by their shared suffering, rise up against the Capitol, aiming to dismantle the oppressive system.
In essence, Panem is more than just a location; it's a symbol of power dynamics, oppression, and the struggle for freedom in the Hunger Games universe.