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Definition of Tone
The tone of a piece of writing is its general character or attitude, which might be cheerful or depressive, sarcastic or sincere, comical or mournful, praising or critical, and so on. For instance... read full definition
The tone of a piece of writing is its general character or attitude, which might be cheerful or depressive, sarcastic or sincere, comical or mournful, praising or critical... read full definition
The tone of a piece of writing is its general character or attitude, which might be cheerful or depressive, sarcastic or sincere, comical... read full definition
Key Examples in Emma
Chapter 1
Explanation and Analysis:
Overall, the tone of Emma is playful, sarcastic, and tongue-in-cheek. The novel is a social comedy, after all, which means that Austen wants her readers to laugh and have an enjoyable reading experience. This playful tone comes across in Chapter 1, in the opening lines of the novel:
Emma Woodhouse, handsome, clever, and rich, with a comfortable home and happy disposition, seemed to unite some of the best blessings of existence; and had lived nearly twenty-one years in the world with very little to distress or vex her.
Related Themes:
Chapter 43
Explanation and Analysis:
Overall, the tone of Emma is playful, sarcastic, and tongue-in-cheek. The novel is a social comedy, after all, which means that Austen wants her readers to laugh and have an enjoyable reading experience. This playful tone comes across in Chapter 1, in the opening lines of the novel:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Emma Woodhouse, handsome, clever, and rich, with a comfortable home and happy disposition, seemed to unite some of the best blessings of existence; and had lived nearly twenty-one years in the world with very little to distress or vex her.
Related Themes:
