Mood

Uncle Tom's Cabin

by Harriet Beecher Stowe

Uncle Tom's Cabin: Mood 1 key example

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
Mood
Explanation and Analysis:

The mood of Uncle Tom's Cabin is melodramatic, tragic, and intense, which reflects its serious subject matter. Because Beecher Stowe was writing explicitly in order to persuade, the language of the novel is sentimental, meaning that it emphasizes emotions in order to get a response from the reader. Beecher Stowe wrote with fellow religious women in mind, purposefully appealing to their feelings of guilt and concern over the treatment of slaves. As a result, the novel's mood is melodramatic, tragic, and intense.