Tutorial: October 11th: Foreshadow

Evidence of foreshadowing in the play.

In Shakeshpeare's A Winter's Tale, foreshadowing is evident. Foreshadow is  a warning or indication of a future event. It keeps the audience interested and gives the play a touch of mystery.
In Act 1 Scene 1, the opening dialogue between Camillo and Archidamus foreshadows events that will occur during the play. They discuss the striking differences between the two kingdom,  the great and enduring friendship between the two kings, and the beauty and promise of Leontes's young son,Mamillius.
"Mamillius: it is a gentleman of the greatest promise that ever came into my note. (act 1 scene 1) "
"I very well agree with you in the hopes of him: it is a gallant child (Act 1 scene 1) "

When Archidamus states that "If the king had no son, they would desire to live on crutches till he had one." , in act 1, this is a sign of foreshadow within the play. Foreshadow begins to fulfill its purpose in act 2 scene 3, when Mamillius becomes ill as a result of his mother's imprisonment ("'Tis hoped his sickness is discharged.") and the discussion in act 1 scene 1 between the Kings' lords about Leontes not having an heir, comes to mind and creates suspense.

Though act 3 scene 2  is filled with joy after Hermione was declared innocent of her accusations, it is also a  moment of greatest disaster, since it leaves us with Mamillius and Hermione dead and the foreshadow and the oracle's warning fulfilled. This occurs when a servant rushes into the trial with word that Mamillius has died.
"O sir, I shall be hated to report it!
The prince your son, with mere conceit and fear
Of the queen's speed, is gone."
Leontes has lost his heirs to the throne and the oracle prophesied that he cannot produce another heir until his lost daughter is found.
The foreshadowing techniques used in the play help grasps the audience's attention throughout the play and holds them in suspense.