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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
Key Examples in An Ideal Husband
Act 1, Part 3
Explanation and Analysis:
Befitting its central themes—a critical portrayal of London’s performative society life and a tender exploration of love and forgiveness—An Ideal Husband alternates between a light-hearted, whimsical, satirical mood and a heartfelt, earnest mood. The highly stylized banter between its characters fosters much of the humor and wit—and withering satire—of the play, as with this flirtatious exchange between Mabel Chiltern and Lord Goring in Act 1, Part 2:
Mabel Chiltern: What a horrid woman!
Lord Goring: You should go to bed, Miss Mabel.
Mabel Chiltern: Lord Goring!
Lord Goring: My father told me to go to bed an hour ago. I don’t see why I shouldn’t give you the same advice. I always pass on good advice. It is the only thing to do with it. It is never of any use to oneself.
Mabel Chiltern: Lord Goring, you are always ordering me out of the room. I think it most courageous of you. Especially as I am not going to bed for hours.
Related Themes:
Act 4, Part 2
Explanation and Analysis:
Befitting its central themes—a critical portrayal of London’s performative society life and a tender exploration of love and forgiveness—An Ideal Husband alternates between a light-hearted, whimsical, satirical mood and a heartfelt, earnest mood. The highly stylized banter between its characters fosters much of the humor and wit—and withering satire—of the play, as with this flirtatious exchange between Mabel Chiltern and Lord Goring in Act 1, Part 2:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Mabel Chiltern: What a horrid woman!
Lord Goring: You should go to bed, Miss Mabel.
Mabel Chiltern: Lord Goring!
Lord Goring: My father told me to go to bed an hour ago. I don’t see why I shouldn’t give you the same advice. I always pass on good advice. It is the only thing to do with it. It is never of any use to oneself.
Mabel Chiltern: Lord Goring, you are always ordering me out of the room. I think it most courageous of you. Especially as I am not going to bed for hours.
Related Themes:
