Question

Even though both ballads deal with people dying, what gives "Bonny Barbara Allen" a lighter mood than "Lord Randall'?

a) "Bonny Barbara Allen" has a happier ending.
b) "Bonny Barbara Allen" contains humorous elements.
c) "Lord Randall" is more focused on war.
d) "Lord Randall" has more supernatural elements.

Answer 1

The lighter mood in 'Bonny Barbara Allen' compared to 'Lord Randall' can be attributed to the happier ending and the absence of supernatural elements in 'Bonny Barbara Allen'.

Step-by-step explanation:

The lighter mood in 'Bonny Barbara Allen' compared to 'Lord Randall' can be attributed to a) the happier ending and b) the absence of supernatural elements in 'Bonny Barbara Allen'.

In 'Bonny Barbara Allen', the ballad concludes with the regret of Barbara Allen for rejecting her dying suitor's love, which implies a possibility of remorse and personal growth. On the other hand, 'Lord Randall' ends tragically with Lord Randall dying from poisoned food.

Furthermore, 'Bonny Barbara Allen' does not contain supernatural elements, while 'Lord Randall' includes elements like the question of how he got poisoned and his conversation with his mother about the cause of his illness. The absence of supernatural elements in 'Bonny Barbara Allen' adds to the lighter mood of the ballad.