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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
Act 5, Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis:
The mood of the play is mixed, blending lighthearted comedy with much darker themes and emotions more often associated with tragedy. The play’s contradictory mood is in many ways summarized by Sir John Falstaff, one of Shakespeare’s most famous and complex characters.
Falstaff's exaggerated stories, quick wit, bawdy humor, and humorous escapades provide comic relief amid the political machinations and conflicts of the play. Falstaff even comments directly upon his own clown-like role, as well as his desire to make others laugh. After spending an evening with the absurd Justice Shallow, Falstaff eagerly looks forward to recounting the story to Prince Harry:
I will
devise matter enough out of this Shallow to keep
Prince Harry in continual laughter the wearing out
of six fashions, which is four terms, or two actions,
and he shall laugh without intervallums [...]
O, you shall see him laugh till
his face be like a wet cloak ill laid up.
Related Themes:
Act 5, Scene 5
Explanation and Analysis:
The mood of the play is mixed, blending lighthearted comedy with much darker themes and emotions more often associated with tragedy. The play’s contradictory mood is in many ways summarized by Sir John Falstaff, one of Shakespeare’s most famous and complex characters.
Falstaff's exaggerated stories, quick wit, bawdy humor, and humorous escapades provide comic relief amid the political machinations and conflicts of the play. Falstaff even comments directly upon his own clown-like role, as well as his desire to make others laugh. After spending an evening with the absurd Justice Shallow, Falstaff eagerly looks forward to recounting the story to Prince Harry:
Unlock with LitCharts A+I will
devise matter enough out of this Shallow to keep
Prince Harry in continual laughter the wearing out
of six fashions, which is four terms, or two actions,
and he shall laugh without intervallums [...]
O, you shall see him laugh till
his face be like a wet cloak ill laid up.
Related Themes:
