What problem does the ballad set up in stanzas 1 and 2 poem bonny barbara allan?

In stanzas 1 and 2 of the ballad "Bonny Barbara Allan", the problem that is set up is the unrequited love of the speaker for Barbara Allan. The speaker expresses his love for Barbara, but she remains indifferent and even dismissive of his feelings. This sets the stage for the tragic events that unfold later in the ballad.