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 Measure for Measure
Mood
Explanation and Analysis:
As with Shakespeare’s other “problem plays” that combine elements more commonly associated with either comedy or tragedy, the overall mood of Measure for Measure is ambivalent. This ambivalence arises from a combination of conflicting emotions, moral dilemmas, and contrasting tones that permeate the play. While the play contains humorous scenes and witty wordplay, it tackles serious themes such as justice, power, hypocrisy, and sexual morality. These various contrasts create an ambivalent mood that oscillates between humorous and introspective.