The Iliad
by Homer

The Iliad: Tone 1 key example

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
Book 2
Explanation and Analysis:

In line with its focus on the horrors and thrill of war, the tone of the Iliad is intense and stirring. By beginning the poem in media res, Homer gives the poem a sense of urgency right away. Throughout the poem, the narrator addresses the epic muses, the audience, and occasionally even some characters. This makes the poem feel intimate, as the narrator seems to directly involve himself with those within the story as well as those reading it.