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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
Volume 1, Chapter 5
Explanation and Analysis:
The tone of the novel is sensational, but in a way that is calculated to motivate readers' interest in the novel's historical and political questions. For instance, Magawisca's agitation and Nelema's sinister omens build up to Sedgwick's extremely graphic description in Volume 1, Chapter 5, of Mononotto's raid on Bethel:
Mononotto’s heart melted within him; he stooped to raise the sweet suppliant [Mrs. Fletcher's baby], when one of the Mohawks fiercely seized him, tossed him wildly around his head, and dashed him on the doorstone. But the silent prayer—perhaps the celestial inspiration of the innocent creature, was not lost. “We have had blood enough,” cried Mononotto, “you have well avenged me, brothers.”
Related Themes:
Volume 2, Chapter 15
Explanation and Analysis:
The tone of the novel is sensational, but in a way that is calculated to motivate readers' interest in the novel's historical and political questions. For instance, Magawisca's agitation and Nelema's sinister omens build up to Sedgwick's extremely graphic description in Volume 1, Chapter 5, of Mononotto's raid on Bethel:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Mononotto’s heart melted within him; he stooped to raise the sweet suppliant [Mrs. Fletcher's baby], when one of the Mohawks fiercely seized him, tossed him wildly around his head, and dashed him on the doorstone. But the silent prayer—perhaps the celestial inspiration of the innocent creature, was not lost. “We have had blood enough,” cried Mononotto, “you have well avenged me, brothers.”
Related Themes:
