Previous
Metaphors
Definition of Mood
The mood of a piece of writing is its general atmosphere or emotional complexion—in short, the array of feelings the work evokes in the reader. Every aspect of a piece of writing... read full definition
The mood of a piece of writing is its general atmosphere or emotional complexion—in short, the array of feelings the work evokes in the reader. Every aspect... read full definition
The mood of a piece of writing is its general atmosphere or emotional complexion—in short, the array of feelings the work evokes... read full definition
Act 3, Scene 2
Explanation and Analysis:
The mood of Richard II is bleak and grave, as it depicts the downfall of a monarch, an event that threatens to destabilize the kingdom of England. Richard II’s tragic end would have been familiar to audiences in Shakespeare’s time, and the play moves steadily towards this dark and inevitable conclusion. There are few if any moments of levity to lighten the mood, and the few moments of humor are clear examples of dark or “gallows” humor. There are none of the celebrations readers might expect from Shakespeare’s lighter comedies, and the atmosphere in court is tense and fearful, reflecting characters’ anxieties for the future of the kingdom.
Related Themes:
