1. To create a sense of urgency and mystery: By emphasizing the lateness of the hour, Shakespeare creates a sense of urgency and mystery that draws the audience into the scene. It suggests that something important or ominous is about to happen, heightening the anticipation and suspense.
2. To establish the setting and atmosphere: The lateness of the hour also helps to establish the setting and atmosphere of the scene. It conveys a sense of darkness, secrecy, and danger that is often associated with nighttime in Shakespeare's plays. This atmosphere sets the stage for the events that are about to unfold.
3. To foreshadow events: In some cases, the emphasis on the lateness of the hour can foreshadow events that will occur later in the scene or the play. For example, in "Romeo and Juliet," the lateness of the hour foreshadows the tragic events that will take place during the night, such as the lovers' secret marriage and their subsequent deaths.
4. To create dramatic tension: The lateness of the hour can also be used to create dramatic tension. By highlighting the fact that it is late, Shakespeare builds suspense and anticipation in the audience, making them eager to see what will happen next.
5. To emphasize the characters' state of mind: The lateness of the hour can also be used to emphasize the characters' state of mind. For example, in "Macbeth," the lateness of the hour reflects Macbeth's anxiety and guilt after he murders Duncan. The darkness of the night amplifies his inner turmoil and adds to the sense of foreboding.
In conclusion, Shakespeare's emphasis on the lateness of the hour at the beginning of a scene serves multiple purposes, including creating a sense of urgency, mystery, and dramatic tension, establishing the setting and atmosphere, foreshadowing events, and emphasizing the characters' state of mind.