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Definition of Foreshadowing
Foreshadowing is a literary device in which authors hint at plot developments that don't actually occur until later in the story. Foreshadowing can be achieved directly or indirectly, by making... read full definition
Foreshadowing is a literary device in which authors hint at plot developments that don't actually occur until later in the story. Foreshadowing can be achieved... read full definition
Foreshadowing is a literary device in which authors hint at plot developments that don't actually occur until later in the... read full definition
Key Examples in The Way of the World
Act 1, Scene 2
Explanation and Analysis—Written Proof:
Written proof is a motif throughout they play. Repeated instances where written proof delivers a plot twist foreshadow the resolution of the play, when Mirabell reveals that has the deed to Mrs. Fainall's property. For instance, in Act 1, Scene 2, a servant delivers Mirabell the news that Waitwell and Foible have been married:
SERVANT: Married and bedded, sir; I am witness.
MIRABELL: Have you the certificate?
SERVANT: Here it is, sir.
Related Themes:
Act 2, Scene 6
Explanation and Analysis—King Solomon:
Millamant tells Mirabell that she is not interested in marrying him in Act 2, Scene 6, and Mirabell laments the fact that straightforwardness hasn't won him romantic success. Millamant makes an allusion to King Solomon in the Bible:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Sententious Mirabell! Prithee, don’t look with that violent and inflexible wise face, like Solomon at the dividing of the child in an old tapestry hanging.
Related Themes:
Act 5, Scene 6
Explanation and Analysis—Fainall's Abuse:
In Act 5, Scene 6, Fainall blackmails Lady Wishfort. Some of his demands foreshadow the revelation in scenes 11 and 13 that he can be physically abusive toward Mrs. Fainall:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Next, my wife shall settle on me the remainder of her fortune not made over already, and for her maintenance depend entirely on my discretion.
Related Themes:
Act 5, Scene 13
Explanation and Analysis—Fainall's Abuse:
In Act 5, Scene 6, Fainall blackmails Lady Wishfort. Some of his demands foreshadow the revelation in scenes 11 and 13 that he can be physically abusive toward Mrs. Fainall:
Unlock with LitCharts A+Next, my wife shall settle on me the remainder of her fortune not made over already, and for her maintenance depend entirely on my discretion.
Related Themes:
