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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
Mood
Explanation and Analysis:
In Ivanhoe the mood of the novel fluctuates dramatically, as the reader is carried along on the wild ride of dramatic events and interactions Scott describes. These shifts are carefully orchestrated to coincide with narrative developments, ensuring that the reader's emotional journey aligns with that of the character they’re reading about. When the novel is exciting, the mood is highly excited, sweeping the reader up. This begins with the Ashby tournament at the start of the novel, where the reader feels the fierce competition between Saxon and Norman and between the competing knights. It darkens during the siege of Torquilstone, and becomes excited and hopeful again during the rescue effort led by Robin Locksley. The darkest moments of the reader’s experience in the book surround Rebecca, particularly during moments when she is alone with Bois-Guilbert and during her trial for witchcraft. The reader is brought back once again to optimism at the end when Richard I reveals himself and attempts to resolve some of the still-bitter conflicts, and when the love triangle between Ivanhoe, Rebecca, and Rowena is resolved.
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