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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 3, Scene 1
Explanation and Analysis:
Congreve cultivates a mood of false superiority in the play's audience. Lower-class people, including servants, are often the butts of jokes, which was common in Restoration comedies. The audiences were often wealthy and could feel more "cultured" than the fools in these plays. By 1700, when Congreve's play came out, the social landscape had changed somewhat from the earlier Restoration: there was a more visible middle class, for instance. Congreve's play often turns around and levels jokes at the wealthy people, too.
One example of this dynamic is in Act 3, Scene 1, when Lady Wishfort's servant has to clarify whether Lady Wishfort wants her makeup or a glass of alcohol:
LADY WISHFORT: [...] Why dost thou not fetch me a little red? Did’st thou not hear me, mopus?
PEG: The red ratifia does your ladyship mean, or the cherry brandy?
Related Themes:
