Question

Why do you think Shakespeare includes this scene with the porter? Consider the dramatic tension of the previous scene and its contrast with the tone of this one.
A- Because he wants his audience to know that he knows how to party

B- Because the actor's needed time to change their costumes

C- Because the audience needs a chance to release the tension from the drama of the previous scene.

Answer 1

C- Because the audience needs a chance to release the tension from the drama of the previous scene.

Shakespeare uses 'clown' characters to release tension after particularly dramatic scenes. The porter acts as a comic character to give the audience a break of serious, dramatic emotions. His humor would help the audience regroup and prepare for the drama to come.