Notes of English(MINOR)----1005

(Understanding English Poetry)

Unit 1:

#Geoffrey Chaucer. ‘The Canterbury Tales’ (Prologue Lines 1-48)

1. Line-by-Line Explana on (Lines 1–48)

Chaucer begins by describing the arrival of spring, emphasizing nature's renewal and its
effect on people.
1. "Whan that Aprille with his shoures soote":
o When April brings its sweet showers of rain, they rejuvenate the land a er
the dryness of March.
2. "The droghte of March hath perced to the roote":
o The rain pierces through the dry soil, nourishing the roots of plants.
3. "And bathed every veyne in swich licour":
o The rain refreshes every plant with life-giving liquid.
4. "Of which vertu engendred is the flour":
o This liquid (water) helps flowers bloom.
5. "Whan Zephirus eek with his sweete breeth":
o When the West Wind (Zephyr) blows gently, it makes everything grow.
6. "Inspired hath in every holt and heeth":
o The wind breathes life into forests and meadows.
7. "The tendre croppes, and the yonge sonne":
o Young crops and the rising sun of spring enhance the feeling of renewal.
8. "Hath in the Ram his halve cours yronne":
o The sun has moved halfway through the zodiac sign Aries.
 9. "And smale foweles maken melodye":
o Small birds sing joyfully, welcoming spring.

10. "That slepen al the nyght with open ye":

o Birds sleep with open eyes but are now ac ve and lively.
11. "So priketh hem Nature in hir corages":
o Nature inspires all creatures to pursue life and joy.
12. "Thanne longen folk to goon on pilgrimages":
o People feel the urge to travel and go on pilgrimages.
13. "And specially, from every shires ende":
o Especially from every part of England.
14. "Of Engelond, to Caunterbury they wende":
o They journey to Canterbury to visit the shrine of Saint Thomas Becket.
15. "The hooly blisful mar r for to seke":
o To seek the holy, blessed martyr (St. Thomas Becket) for blessings.
16. "That hem hath holpen whan that they were seeke":
o Believing he has helped them during illnesses.

2. Elaborate Summary
In the opening lines, Chaucer paints a vivid picture of spring's arrival, symbolizing
rejuvena on and the s rring of life in both nature and humanity. He describes how April
showers revive the earth, enabling plants to grow and animals to thrive. This seasonal
awakening inspires people to embark on religious pilgrimages. Chaucer introduces the
central se ng of the poem: a group of pilgrims traveling to Canterbury to visit the shrine of
St. Thomas Becket. The descrip on sets the stage for the tales the pilgrims will tell along the
way.

3. Cri cal Analysis

Chaucer’s opening lines are rich in imagery, portraying nature as a force that revitalizes the
world. The detailed depic on of spring serves both as a literal season and a metaphor for
spiritual awakening. The focus on pilgrimage highlights the medieval society's religious
devo on and the blend of spiritual and worldly concerns. Chaucer’s use of poe c devices,
such as allitera on and vivid descrip ons, creates an engaging rhythm that draws readers
into the narra ve.
4. Poet's Intent

Chaucer aims to highlight the universality of human experience, blending religious faith with
everyday life. By beginning with nature’s renewal, he connects the pilgrims' journey to a
larger cycle of life and spiritual purpose.

5. Themes
 Nature and Renewal: The rejuvena on of spring symbolizes life’s con nuous cycle.
 Faith and Pilgrimage: The journey to Canterbury represents devo on and the search
for spiritual salva on.
 Community and Diversity: The gathering of pilgrims reflects the varied lives and
perspec ves of medieval England.

6. Figures of Speech
 Imagery: Vivid descrip ons of spring (e.g., "shoures soote," "smale foweles").
 Personifica on: Nature is depicted as ac vely inspiring life (e.g., "priketh hem
Nature").
 Allitera on: Repeated consonant sounds (e.g., "hath perced to the roote").
 Symbolism: Spring as a symbol of spiritual and physical renewal.
#Edmund Spencer. ‘One Day I Wrote Her Name’ (1595)

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
This sonnet (Sonnet 75 from Amore ) describes a conversa on between the poet and his
beloved, focusing on love's impermanence and immortality through poetry.
1. "One day I wrote her name upon the strand":
o The poet writes his beloved’s name on the sand at the beach.
2. "But came the waves and washed it away":
o The sea waves erase the name, symbolizing the impermanence of life.
3. "Again I wrote it with a second hand":
o He tries again to immortalize her name, only to see it erased once more.
4. "But came the de, and made my pains his prey":
o The de destroys his efforts, as if mocking his a empts.
5. "‘Vain man,’ said she, ‘that dost in vain assay":
o His beloved calls him foolish for trying to achieve the impossible.
6. "A mortal thing so to immortalize":
o She argues that mortal beings cannot live forever.
7. "For I myself shall like to this decay":
o She reminds him that she too will perish one day.
8. "And eke my name be wiped out likewise":
o Her name, like the wri ng on the sand, will be forgo en.
9. "Not so,’ quod I, ‘let baser things devise":
o The poet disagrees, sta ng that lesser things might decay.
10. "To die in dust, but you shall live by fame":
o He insists that his poetry will make her immortal.
11. "My verse your virtues rare shall eternize":
o His wri ng will eternalize her virtues and beauty.
12. "And in the heavens write your glorious name":
o Her name will be inscribed in heaven through his verse.
 13. "Where, whenas death shall all the world subdue":
o When death conquers everything, his poetry will endure.

14. "Our love shall live, and later life renew":

o Their love will survive death, preserved in his poetry for future genera ons.

2. Elaborate Summary
The poem begins with the poet’s fu le a empts to immortalize his beloved’s name by
wri ng it on the beach, only for the waves to erase it. His beloved points out the fu lity of
his efforts, emphasizing that she too, like the name in the sand, is mortal and will one day
fade away. However, the poet counters by asser ng the power of his verse, claiming that his
poetry will preserve her beauty and their love for eternity. Through this exchange, the poem
highlights the tension between mortality and the meless nature of art.

3. Cri cal Analysis

Spenser’s sonnet explores the theme of immortality through art, showcasing the poet’s
confidence in the enduring power of his verse. The imagery of the waves erasing the name
symbolizes life’s transient nature, while the poet’s determina on to "eternalize" his beloved
reflects the Renaissance belief in art’s ability to defy me. The conversa onal tone adds a
personal touch, making the abstract theme relatable. The poem’s structure—a
Shakespearean sonnet—uses its rhyme scheme to create a harmonious flow, mirroring the
eternal bond the poet wishes to convey.

4. Poet's Intent

Edmund Spenser intends to immortalize his beloved and their love through his poetry. He
challenges the inevitability of death by presen ng art as a means to achieve melessness.
His verse is a declara on of love that transcends the limita ons of mortality.

5. Themes
 Love and Immortality: The poet’s love will survive through the permanence of
poetry.
 The Power of Art: Poetry is depicted as a medium to preserve life beyond death.
 Mortality vs. Eternity: The conflict between life’s flee ng nature and art’s las ng
impact.
6. Figures of Speech
 Imagery: The waves erasing the name symbolize the impermanence of life.

 Personifica on: The de is portrayed as a predator, "preying" on the poet’s efforts.

 Metaphor: Wri ng the name in the sand symbolizes the temporary nature of human
life.
 Allitera on: Repe on of consonant sounds (e.g., "pains his prey").
 Symbolism: The name on the sand represents mortality, while poetry represents
immortality.

#William Shakespeare. ‘Since brass, nor stone, nor earth,

nor boundless sea’ (1609)

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "Since brass, nor stone, nor earth, nor boundless sea":
o Even durable things like metal, stone, the earth, and the sea cannot withstand
me.
2. "But sad mortality o'ersways their power":
o Time overpowers even the strongest elements, leading to their decay.
3. "How with this rage shall beauty hold a plea":
o If me destroys everything, how can delicate beauty survive?
4. "Whose ac on is no stronger than a flower?":
o Beauty is as fragile as a flower, unable to resist me’s effects.
5. "O, how shall summer's honey breath hold out":
o How can the sweet essence of summer endure over me?
6. "Against the wrackful siege of ba ering days":
o Time is likened to a destruc ve force, relentlessly a acking beauty.
7. "When rocks impregnable are not so stout":
o Even the toughest rocks cannot withstand me’s destruc ve power.
 8. "Nor gates of steel so strong, but Time decays?":
o Time eventually corrodes even the strongest steel.

9. "O fearful medita on! where, alack":

o The poet laments the inevitability of decay and destruc on.
10. "Shall Time’s best jewel from Time’s chest lie hid?":
o He wonders how the finest things can be hidden from me’s grasp.
11. "Or what strong hand can hold his swi foot back?":
o No one can stop me or slow its effects.
12. "Or who his spoil of beauty can forbid?":
o No one can prevent me from destroying beauty.
13. "O, none, unless this miracle have might":
o The poet suggests that only poetry can defy me.
14. "That in black ink my love may s ll shine bright":
o Through his wri en verse, the poet’s beloved will remain immortal.

2. Elaborate Summary
This sonnet explores the destruc ve power of me and its inevitable impact on all things,
including nature, strength, and beauty. Shakespeare uses imagery of strong elements like
brass, stone, and steel to emphasize the invincibility of me, which even these cannot resist.
The poet expresses despair at the flee ng nature of beauty, comparing it to a delicate
flower. Ul mately, he finds hope in poetry, asser ng that through his verses, his beloved’s
beauty will transcend me and remain eternal.

3. Cri cal Analysis

Shakespeare’s sonnet reflects the Renaissance preoccupa on with the passage of me and
the impermanence of life. The poet contrasts the fragility of beauty with the durability of
elements like stone and steel, which themselves cannot resist me. The resolu on lies in the
power of art—specifically poetry—to preserve beauty and love. The couplet at the end
provides a hopeful twist, underscoring the idea that wri ng can immortalize flee ng
moments and feelings.

4. Poet's Intent
Shakespeare intends to highlight the inevitability of me’s destruc ve power while
emphasizing the enduring nature of art. By immortalizing his beloved through his sonnet, he
triumphs over mortality, preserving their love forever.

5. Themes
 The Inevitability of Time: Time conquers even the strongest and most enduring
things.
 Beauty and Mortality: Beauty is transient and fragile in the face of me.
 The Power of Poetry: Art has the poten al to defy me and preserve what is
otherwise ephemeral.

6. Figures of Speech
 Imagery: Vivid descrip ons of natural elements and their decay under me.

 Personifica on: Time is portrayed as a forceful being, a acking and destroying.

 Metaphor: Time as a ba ering force, beauty as a fragile flower.
 Allitera on: Repe on of consonant sounds (e.g., "ba ering days").
 Symbolism: "Black ink" symbolizes the wri en word, a medium for immortality.

#John Donne – "The Canoniza on"

4. John Donne – "The Canoniza on"

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "For God's sake hold your tongue, and let me love":
o The speaker asks cri cs to stop interfering with his love life.
2. "Or chide my palsy, or my gout":
o He tells them to focus on their own flaws or ailments instead of judging
him.
3. "My five gray hairs, or ruined fortune flout":
o The speaker mocks how others cri cize his aging and financial struggles.
4. "With wealth your state, your mind with arts improve":
o He sarcas cally suggests they use their me to be er themselves.
5. "Take you a course, get you a place":
o The speaker advises cri cs to focus on worldly ambi ons rather than his
love.
6. "Observe his Honour, or his Grace":
o He implies they should look up to nobility or authority figures instead.
7. "Or the king’s real, or his stamped face":
o Referring to the king or his image on coins, he urges them to pursue wealth
or status.
8. "Contemplate; what you will, approve,":
o He dismisses their judgment, emphasizing his indifference.
9. "Alas, alas, who’s injured by my love?":
o The speaker ques ons how his love harms anyone.
10. "Soldiers find wars, and lawyers find out s ll":
o He contrasts his harmless love with the destruc ve pursuits of others.
11. "Li gious men, which quarrels move,":
o Lawyers thrive on disputes, unlike his peaceful love.
12. "Though she and I do love":
o He asserts that his love causes no harm.
13. "Call us what you will, we are made such by love":
o He accepts any label because love defines and elevates them.
14. "And if unfit for tombs and hearse":
o If they are unworthy of tradi onal memorials, their love will s ll be eternal.
15. "We find a place in the lover's verse":
 o Their love will live on through poetry.
16. "And if no piece of chronicle we prove":

o Even if history doesn’t record their love, poetry will immortalize it.
17. "The greatest ashes, as half-acre tombs":
o He mocks grand memorials, valuing poetry over monuments.
18. "Made them who else but thus their glory knows":
o Poets grant lovers eternal fame, surpassing material legacies.

2. Elaborate Summary
"The Canoniza on" defends the speaker's love against societal judgment and cri cism. The
speaker dismisses cri cs, emphasizing that his love does no harm and deserves respect. He
elevates love, portraying it as a spiritual and transforma ve force. Rejec ng material
achievements, the speaker asserts that their love will be "canonized" in poetry, gran ng
them immortality.

3. Cri cal Analysis

Donne uses metaphysical conceits to argue for the sanc ty of love, blending intellectual
reasoning with emo onal depth. The poem’s conversa onal tone reflects the speaker’s
defiance of societal norms, while the idea of love as a divine force challenges conven onal
views. The poem contrasts the material and spiritual, sugges ng that true love transcends
worldly concerns.

4. Poet's Intent

John Donne seeks to elevate the concept of love, portraying it as an enduring and sacred
force. By canonizing love through poetry, he highlights its spiritual and transforma ve
power, rejec ng societal constraints.

5. Themes
 Love and Immortality: Love’s power to transcend me and mortality.
 Defiance of Society: Rejec ng cri cism and societal norms to celebrate personal
experiences.
 Spiritual Love: Love as a divine, almost holy force.
 Art’s Endurance: Poetry as a means of immortalizing love.
6. Figures of Speech

 Metaphysical Conceits: Complex comparisons, like love being canonized.

 Imagery: Vivid contrasts between worldly pursuits and spiritual love.
 Allusion: References to tombs, history, and sainthood.
 Hyperbole: Exaggera ng love’s power to emphasize its greatness.
 Irony: Mocking cri cs and societal values.

#Andrew Marvell – "The Garden"

5. Andrew Marvell – "The Garden"

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "How vainly men themselves amaze":
o People foolishly overwork and stress themselves in their pursuits.
2. "To win the palm, the oak, or bays":
o They compete for honors symbolized by palm (victory), oak (strength), and
bays (poetry).
3. "And their uncessant labours see":

o Their con nuous efforts bring li le reward.

4. "Crowned from some single herb or tree":
o They celebrate small achievements, ignoring nature’s greater beauty.
5. "Fair Quiet, have I found thee here":
o The poet finds peace and tranquility in the garden.
6. "And Innocence, thy sister dear!":
o He also discovers innocence alongside peace.
 7. "Mistaken long, I sought you then":
o He realizes he wrongly searched for peace in worldly pursuits.

8. "In busy companies of men":

o He reflects on how human society lacks the serenity of nature.
9. "Society is all but rude":
o Society feels coarse and unrefined compared to nature.
10. "To this delicious solitude":
o The poet cherishes the solitude of the garden.
11. "No white nor red was ever seen":
o The natural beauty of flowers surpasses any human art.
12. "So amorous as this lovely green":
o The garden’s greenery is unmatched in beauty and charm.
13. "When we have run our passion’s heat":
o A er experiencing life’s intense emo ons, the garden offers solace.
14. "Love hither makes his best retreat":
o Even love finds refuge in the peace of the garden.
15. "In a green shade":
o The poet emphasizes the soothing power of nature’s greenery.
16. "The mind, that ocean where each kind":
o The mind, like the vast ocean, thrives in the tranquility of nature.
17. "Does straight its own resemblance find":
o In nature, the mind reflects and finds itself.

2. Elaborate Summary
"The Garden" celebrates the serenity and beauty of nature, contras ng it with the chaos
of human society and ambi on. The poet cri cizes humanity’s obsession with compe on
and worldly success, finding true peace and innocence in the solitude of the garden. He
praises the harmonious rela onship between the mind and nature, where the mind can
reflect and grow. The garden represents a spiritual retreat, offering solace and
enlightenment beyond earthly distrac ons.
3. Cri cal Analysis
Andrew Marvell uses vivid imagery and metaphysical ideas to emphasize the garden as a
space of tranquility and spiritual enlightenment. The poem cri ques human ambi on,
sugges ng that the pursuit of honors and achievements pales in comparison to the peace
of nature. Through the interplay of solitude and reflec on, Marvell highlights the
restora ve power of the natural world. The garden serves as a metaphor for paradise, a
place where the soul can thrive.

4. Poet's Intent
Marvell intends to depict the garden as an ideal retreat from the struggles of human life.
By emphasizing nature’s beauty and tranquility, he promotes a life of reflec on and
spiritual growth over ambi on and materialism.

5. Themes
 Nature and Solitude: The peace and healing power of the natural world.
 Cri que of Ambi on: Rejec on of worldly pursuits in favor of spiritual
contentment.
 Reflec on and the Mind: Nature as a space for intellectual and spiritual reflec on.
 The Superiority of Nature: Nature’s beauty surpasses all human crea ons.

6. Figures of Speech
 Imagery: Vivid descrip ons of the garden and its beauty.
 Personifica on: A ributes like "Fair Quiet" and "Innocence" are personified.

 Metaphor: The garden symbolizes paradise and spiritual retreat.

 Allusion: References to classical symbols like the palm, oak, and bays.
 Contrast: Juxtaposi on of the chao c society with the serene garden.
#John Milton – "On the Late Massacre in Piedmont"

6. John Milton – "On the Late Massacre in Piedmont"

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "Avenge, O Lord, thy slaughtered saints, whose bones":
o Milton calls upon God to avenge the massacre of His faithful believers.
2. "Lie sca ered on the Alpine mountains cold":
o The poet describes the vic ms’ remains lying in the snowy Alps.
3. "Even them who kept thy truth so pure of old":
o The vic ms were faithful Chris ans who upheld God’s teachings.
4. "When all our fathers worshipped stocks and stones":

o This contrasts the vic ms’ true faith with the idolatry of others in history.
5. "Forget not: in thy book record their groans":
o Milton pleads with God to remember their suffering and inscribe it in His
divine record.
6. "Who were thy sheep, and in their ancient fold":
o The vic ms are compared to sheep, innocent and faithful to God.
7. "Slain by the bloody Piemontese that rolled":
o They were brutally killed by the forces of Piedmont.
8. "Mother with infant down the rocks":
o The poet highlights the brutality of the massacre, even against mothers and
infants.
9. "Their moans":
o Milton emphasizes the cries of the vic ms, evoking their pain and
innocence.
10. "The vales redoubled to the hills, and they":
o Their cries echoed across valleys and hills, a testament to the scale of the
atrocity.
11. "To heaven":
 o Their suffering and prayers rose to heaven, appealing to God for jus ce.
12. "The martyr’s blood and ashes sow":

o Milton compares their blood and ashes to seeds, sugges ng that their
sacrifice will lead to the growth of faith.
13. "O’er all the Italian fields, where s ll doth sway":
o The poet envisions their legacy spreading across Italy.
14. "The triple tyrant":
o A reference to the Pope and the Catholic Church, whom Milton sees as
oppressors.
15. "That from these may grow":
o He hopes that from their suffering will arise new, faithful followers.
16. "A hundredfold, who having learnt thy way":
o Their martyrdom will inspire a mul tude of others to follow God’s path.
17. "Early may fly the Babylonian woe":
o Milton prays for an end to the corrupt influence of the Catholic Church,
likened to Babylon.

2. Elaborate Summary
This poem is a hear elt and impassioned plea to God, wri en in response to the 1655
massacre of the Waldensians, a Protestant Chris an group, by the Catholic forces of
Piedmont. Milton mourns the brutal killings, including the murder of women and children,
and calls upon God to avenge the vic ms. He portrays their sacrifice as seeds of faith that
will inspire future believers. The poem cri ques the Catholic Church’s tyranny, likening it
to Babylon, and envisions the spread of true Chris anity as a result of the martyrs’
sacrifice.

3. Cri cal Analysis

Milton’s poem combines personal grief with poli cal and religious commentary. The use of
biblical allusions and vivid imagery reinforces the sacredness of the vic ms’ sacrifice. The
sonnet structure intensifies the emo onal weight of the poem, while the call for divine
vengeance highlights the poet’s deep-seated desire for jus ce. Milton’s cri que of the
Catholic Church reflects the Protestant-Catholic tensions of his me, making the poem a
powerful poli cal statement as well as a religious lament.
4. Poet's Intent
John Milton aims to immortalize the suffering of the Waldensians and to call for divine
jus ce. Through the poem, he seeks to inspire resilience among Protestants and to
condemn the tyranny of the Catholic Church.

5. Themes
 Martyrdom and Sacrifice: The vic ms’ faith and suffering are seen as seeds of
spiritual growth.
 Divine Jus ce: A plea for God’s interven on to avenge the massacre.
 Religious Oppression: Cri cism of the Catholic Church’s persecu on of Protestants.
 Faith and Hope: Belief in the eventual triumph of true Chris anity.

6. Figures of Speech
 Imagery: Vivid descrip ons of the massacre and the vic ms’ suffering.
 Allusion: References to biblical concepts like martyrdom and Babylon.
 Metaphor: Vic ms’ blood and ashes as seeds of faith.
 Personifica on: "The triple tyrant" as a representa on of the Catholic Church.
 Hyperbole: Exaggera on to emphasize the scale of the tragedy.
Unit:2

#John Dryden – "Mac Flecknoe"

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "All human things are subject to decay":
o Everything in the world, including greatness, eventually declines.
2. "And when Fate summons, monarchs must obey":

o Even kings cannot escape des ny and must bow to its power.
3. "This Flecknoe found, who, like Augustus, young":
o Flecknoe, a mediocre poet, is likened sarcas cally to the Roman Emperor
Augustus.
4. "Was called to empire, and had governed long":
o Flecknoe ruled over the realm of bad poetry for a long me.
5. "In prose and verse, was owned, without dispute":
o He was universally recognized for his lack of talent.
6. "Through all the realms of nonsense absolute":
o His reign over nonsensical literature was absolute and undisputed.
7. "This aged prince now flourishing in peace":
o Flecknoe, nearing the end of his reign, enjoys his posi on.
8. "Resolved to se le the succession’s place":
o He decides to choose his successor in the kingdom of bad poetry.
9. "And pond’ring which of all his sons was fit":
o Among his metaphorical "sons" (bad poets), he considers the most worthy
heir.
10. "To reign, and wage immortal wars with wit":
o The successor must con nue the ba le against true literary talent.
11. "Sh— alone my perfect image bears":
o Flecknoe chooses Shadwell, a poet whom Dryden cri cizes, as his successor.
 12. "Mature in dullness from his tender years":
o Shadwell has exhibited mediocrity since his youth.

13. "He stands confirmed in full stupidity":

o Shadwell is the epitome of dullness and mediocrity.
14. "And he shall reign without a rival fit":
o Flecknoe declares Shadwell the undisputed king of bad poetry.
15. "Through all the realms of nonsense infinite":
o Shadwell will rule over the endless world of nonsense and mediocrity.

2. Elaborate Summary
"Mac Flecknoe" is a mock-epic sa re in which Dryden ridicules the poet Thomas Shadwell,
portraying him as the successor to Richard Flecknoe, a symbol of mediocrity. The poem
humorously narrates Flecknoe's decision to pass his throne of bad poetry to Shadwell,
whom Dryden depicts as the ideal heir due to his unmatched dullness and lack of talent.
Dryden uses exaggerated language, epic conven ons, and bi ng sarcasm to lampoon
Shadwell’s literary abili es.

3. Cri cal Analysis

Dryden’s poem employs the mock-epic genre to elevate a trivial subject—Shadwell’s
mediocrity—to the level of heroic poetry. This creates a humorous contrast between the
grand style and the pe y content. The poem cri ques not only Shadwell but also the
decline of literary standards. Dryden’s use of irony, classical allusions, and absurd
exaggera on highlights the absurdity of Shadwell’s claim to literary fame.

4. Poet's Intent
Dryden aims to sa rize Thomas Shadwell’s poe c incompetence while cri cizing the larger
trend of mediocrity in literature. Through sharp wit and humor, he mocks Shadwell’s lack
of talent and posi ons himself as a defender of true ar stry.

5. Themes
 Sa re and Cri cism: A bi ng cri que of literary mediocrity.
 Mock-Epic Tradi on: The use of epic conven ons to mock trivial subjects.
 Mediocrity vs. Talent: A commentary on the decline of literary standards.
6. Figures of Speech

 Mock-Epic Style: Imita ng the grandeur of an epic to create humor.

 Sarcasm: Flecknoe’s "praise" of Shadwell is laced with scorn.
 Allusion: References to classical figures and epic tradi ons.
 Irony: The poem’s grand tone contrasts with the trivial subject.
 Hyperbole: Exaggerated depic ons of Shadwell’s incompetence.

#Alexander Pope – "Epistle to Dr. Arbuthnot" (Excerpt)

8. Alexander Pope – "Epistle to Dr. Arbuthnot" (Excerpt)

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "Shut, shut the door, good John! fa gu’d, I said":
o The speaker, weary from constant interrup ons, asks his servant to close
the door and allow him peace.
2. "Tie up the knocker, say I’m sick, I’m dead":
o He exaggerates his exhaus on to emphasize his need for solitude.
3. "The dog-star rages! nay ’ s past a doubt":
o Referring to the oppressive summer heat, the speaker uses it as a metaphor
for his frustra on.
4. "All Bedlam, or Parnassus, is let out":
o The poet sarcas cally suggests that madmen (Bedlam) or bad poets
(Parnassus) are loose and causing chaos.
5. "Authors, like coins, grow dear as they grow old":
 o He compares aging authors to rare coins that become more valuable over
me.
6. "Nor in the field, nor in the town":
o The speaker expresses frustra on with people everywhere demanding his
a en on.
7. "A wit with dunces, and a dunce with wits":
o He is mocked by fools and alienates intelligent people, stuck in a no-win
situa on.
8. "Who shames a scribbler? break one cobweb through":
o Cri cizing a bad writer is pointless; it’s like destroying a flimsy spider’s web
that can easily be rebuilt.
9. "And that’s the very thing I mean to do":
o The poet declares his intent to expose poor writers and their flaws.

10. "Yes, I am proud; I must be proud to see":

o The speaker acknowledges his pride, driven by a sense of jus ce in exposing
mediocrity.
11. "Men not afraid of God, afraid of me":
o He claims that his cri cism terrifies bad writers more than divine judgment.
12. "Safe from the bar, the pulpit, and the throne":
o These writers avoid judgment in law, religion, or poli cs but fear the poet’s
pen.
13. "But touched and shamed by ridicule alone":
o Only sa re and ridicule can effec vely expose their flaws.

2. Elaborate Summary
In this excerpt, Pope vents his frustra ons about the pressures of fame, unwanted visitors,
and the mediocrity of other writers. The poem is addressed to his friend Dr. Arbuthnot and
serves as both a personal lament and a sa rical cri que of society and literature. Pope
portrays himself as a solitary defender of poe c integrity, unafraid to expose and ridicule
bad poets. He humorously exaggerates his exhaus on and disdain for those who fail to
appreciate true ar stry.

3. Cri cal Analysis

Pope’s mock-epic style and sharp wit establish his posi on as a moral and literary cri c.
The poem reflects his disdain for mediocrity and vanity in the literary world. By blending
humor, sarcasm, and personal grievances, Pope creates a bi ng commentary on the
challenges of being a writer. His use of classical allusions and rhetorical devices elevates
his cri que while maintaining a conversa onal tone.

4. Poet's Intent
Pope aims to defend his literary standards and expose the hypocrisy and incompetence of
his cri cs and rivals. Through sa re, he underscores the importance of integrity and wit in
poetry.

5. Themes
 Literary Integrity: The poet’s struggle to maintain high ar s c standards.
 Cri cism of Mediocrity: A sa re on bad writers and their vanity.
 Isola on of the Ar st: The challenges and frustra ons of being a celebrated poet.
 Power of Sa re: The effec veness of ridicule in exposing flaws.

6. Figures of Speech
 Allusion: References to classical tradi ons (Parnassus) and societal roles.
 Hyperbole: Exaggera ng his weariness and frustra on for comic effect.
 Irony: Contrasts between societal judgment and literary ridicule.
 Metaphor: Comparing bad writers to fragile spider webs.
 Personifica on: A ribu ng fear and reac ons to his sa rical works.
#Thomas Gray – "An Elegy Wri en in a Country Churchyard"
(1751)

9. Thomas Gray – "An Elegy Wri en in a Country Churchyard" (1751)

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "The curfew tolls the knell of par ng day":
o The evening bell signals the end of the day, symbolizing the passage of me.
2. "The lowing herd wind slowly o’er the lea":
o Cows move lazily across the meadow, crea ng a peaceful rural scene.
3. "The plowman homeward plods his weary way":
o The farmer, red a er a day's work, returns home.
4. "And leaves the world to darkness and to me":
o Night falls, leaving the poet alone with his thoughts.
5. "The breezy call of incense-breathing morn":
o The morning air, fresh and fragrant, awakens the senses.
6. "No more shall rouse them from their lowly bed":
o The dead, buried in their graves, will never wake again.
7. "The paths of glory lead but to the grave":
o No ma er how great one’s achievements, death is inevitable for all.

8. "Some village-Hampden, that with dauntless breast":

o The poet imagines an unsung hero in the village who could have been as
great as famous figures but remained unno ced.
9. "The applause of listening senates to command":
o These villagers lacked opportuni es to achieve fame or influence others.
10. "Full many a flower is born to blush unseen":
o Like hidden flowers, many lives pass unno ced, their beauty unappreciated.
 11. "Far from the madding crowd’s ignoble strife":
o These people lived peacefully, away from the chaos of society.

12. "Each in his narrow cell forever laid":

o The dead rest eternally in their graves, equalized by death.

2. Elaborate Summary
The poem is a reflec ve medita on on life, death, and the inevitable fate of all people,
regardless of social status. Set in a quiet rural churchyard, Gray contemplates the lives of
the common villagers buried there, imagining the untapped poten al they might have
had. He praises their simplicity and moral values, contras ng them with the ambi ons and
vani es of the elite. The poem underscores the universality of death and the importance
of humility and remembrance.

3. Cri cal Analysis

Gray uses pastoral imagery and a somber tone to explore themes of mortality, equality,
and the transient nature of human achievements. The elegy format emphasizes
melancholy and reflec on, making the poem both personal and universal. Gray’s
sympathy for the unrecognized poten al of the common people and his cri que of societal
ambi on highlight his humanis c values. His poe c structure, rich imagery, and
philosophical depth make this work a masterpiece of 18th-century literature.

4. Poet's Intent
Gray aims to remind readers of the inevitability of death and the equality it brings, urging
them to value humility and the moral virtues of the common folk. He also seeks to
immortalize the memory of the unno ced lives through his poe c tribute.

5. Themes
 Mortality and Death: The inevitability and universality of death.
 Equality in Death: Death as the great equalizer between rich and poor.
 Hidden Poten al: The unrecognized talents of the common people.
 Simplicity and Rural Life: The virtues of a peaceful, humble existence.
6. Figures of Speech
 Imagery: Vivid depic ons of rural life and the churchyard.

 Personifica on: Death and morning are given human-like quali es.
 Metaphor: "Paths of glory" symbolizes worldly achievements.
 Allusion: References to historical figures and human ambi on.
 Symbolism: The churchyard represents the cycle of life and death.

# William Blake – "The Lamb"

10. William Blake – "The Lamb"

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "Li le Lamb, who made thee? Dost thou know who made thee?":
o The speaker, addressing a lamb, asks who created it, implying innocence and
purity.
2. "Gave thee life & bid thee feed, By the stream & o’er the mead":
o The lamb’s creator gave it life and provided it with nourishment in nature.
3. "Gave thee clothing of delight, So est clothing, woolly, bright":
o The lamb is clothed in so , bright wool, symbolizing purity and comfort.
4. "Gave thee such a tender voice, Making all the vales rejoice!":
o The lamb’s gentle voice brings joy to the valleys, reflec ng innocence and
harmony.
5. "Li le Lamb, who made thee? Dost thou know who made thee?":
o The ques on is repeated to emphasize the theme of crea on and innocence.
6. "He is called by thy name, For He calls Himself a Lamb":
o The speaker reveals that the lamb is symbolic of Christ, who is o en called
the "Lamb of God."
7. "He is meek & He is mild, He became a li le child":
 o Christ, like the lamb, is described as gentle and humble, becoming a child on
Earth.
8. "I a child & thou a lamb, We are called by His name":
o The speaker compares himself to the lamb, both of them innocent and
humble in the eyes of God.
9. "Li le Lamb, God bless thee! Li le Lamb, God bless thee!":
o The speaker offers a blessing to the lamb, symbolizing purity and divine love.

2. Elaborate Summary
In "The Lamb," Blake uses a simple, childlike tone to explore themes of innocence, crea on,
and the divine. The speaker asks the lamb who made it, and in doing so, reflects on the
lamb’s purity and connec on to God. The poem emphasizes the idea that Christ, the Lamb of
God, embodies quali es of gentleness and meekness, just like the lamb. The repe on of
ques ons and blessings highlights the speaker’s admira on for the lamb’s innocence and
divine nature, while also symbolizing the rela onship between humans, nature, and God.

3. Cri cal Analysis

Blake’s poem employs a straigh orward structure and language to convey profound
theological and philosophical themes. The contrast between the lamb’s innocence and
Christ’s divine quali es creates a powerful symbol of purity and the rela onship between
humanity and the divine. The repe ve structure, along with the simple, hymn-like
language, reinforces the theme of divine care and protec on. Blake's use of nature as a
metaphor for spiritual truth also reflects his broader mys cal vision in his works.

4. Poet's Intent
Blake seeks to portray innocence, purity, and the divine nature of Christ. Through the image
of the lamb, he explores the idea that God’s presence is reflected in the innocence of nature,
and that all creatures, like the lamb, are blessed by divine love.

5. Themes
 Innocence and Purity: The lamb represents innocence, and it is closely linked to
Christ.
 Crea on and Divine Love: The poem reflects on the beauty of crea on and God’s
nurturing care.
 Christ as the Lamb of God: Christ’s meekness and purity are symbolized by the lamb.
  Childlike Faith: The speaker's childlike wonder highlights a pure rela onship with the
divine.

6. Figures of Speech
 Symbolism: The lamb symbolizes innocence, Christ, and divine love.
 Repe on: The repeated ques ons and blessings emphasize the speaker’s reverence
and awe.
 Metaphor: The lamb is a metaphor for Christ and purity.
 Personifica on: The lamb is described as if it understands its maker and divine
connec on.

11. William Blake – "The Tyger"

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "Tyger Tyger, burning bright, In the forests of the night":
o The speaker marvels at the ger’s fiery, radiant appearance in the darkness of
the forest.
2. "What immortal hand or eye, Could frame thy fearful symmetry?":
o The speaker wonders who could have created such a powerful and fearsome
creature.
3. "In what distant deeps or skies. Burnt the fire of thine eyes?":
o The speaker imagines the source of the ger's intense gaze, ques oning
where such a force originates.
4. "On what wings dare he aspire? What the hand, dare seize the fire?":
o The speaker ques ons the courage of the creator who dared to cra such a
fierce animal.
5. "And what shoulder, and what art, Could twist the sinews of thy heart?":
o The speaker wonders about the strength and ar stry required to create the
ger’s powerful heart.
6. "And when thy heart began to beat, What dread hand? what dread feet?":
o The crea on of the ger’s heart and its violent nature is ques oned.
7. "What the hammer? what the chain, In what furnace was thy brain?":
 o The speaker imagines the forging of the ger, likening it to metalwork and
crea on through fire.
8. "What the anvil? what dread grasp, Dared its deadly terrors clasp!":
o The ger’s crea on is imagined as a dangerous and powerful act, akin to
forging a weapon.
9. "When the stars threw down their spears, And water’d heaven with their tears":
o The speaker evokes an image of cosmic turmoil, as if the stars wept over the
crea on of such a terrifying beast.
10. "Did he smile his work to see? Did he who made the Lamb make thee?":
o The speaker contrasts the ger with the lamb, ques oning if the same creator
could have made both.
11. "Tyger Tyger burning bright, In the forests of the night":
o The poem ends by repea ng the opening lines, emphasizing the awe and
mystery of the ger.

2. Elaborate Summary
In "The Tyger," Blake ques ons the crea on of a fearsome and destruc ve creature, the
ger, wondering who could have cra ed such a powerful being. The poem explores the
tension between innocence and experience, contras ng the ger with the lamb from his
earlier poem. While the lamb symbolizes purity and innocence, the ger represents
strength, danger, and mystery. Blake’s use of vivid imagery and repe on highlights the awe
and terror inspired by the ger, ul mately ques oning the nature of the divine creator who
could create both beauty and violence.

3. Cri cal Analysis

Blake’s poem employs striking imagery and rhythm to convey the mys que of the ger. The
repe ve ques oning reflects the speaker’s wonder and uncertainty about crea on and the
divine. The contrast between the lamb and the ger serves to explore the dual aspects of
crea on—innocence and power. The poem raises philosophical ques ons about the nature
of God and the balance between good and evil. The dark, almost mythological tone of the
poem contrasts with the gentleness of the lamb, making the ger a symbol of both awe and
fear.
4. Poet's Intent
Blake’s intent is to explore the complexi es of crea on and the nature of the divine. Through
the image of the ger, he delves into the idea that crea on encompasses both beauty and
terror, raising ques ons about the Creator’s will and the existence of evil.

5. Themes
 Crea on and the Divine: The mystery and power of the Creator are ques oned.
 Innocence vs. Experience: The contrast between the lamb and the ger symbolizes
the dual nature of existence.
 Fear and Awe: The ger inspires both fear and admira on.
 The Nature of Evil: The poem raises ques ons about the existence of evil in the
world.

6. Figures of Speech
 Imagery: Vivid descrip ons of the ger’s fiery appearance and crea on process.
 Repe on: The repeated lines emphasize the speaker’s awe and confusion.
 Metaphor: The ger represents experience, power, and terror.
 Rhetorical Ques on: The speaker ques ons the nature of the Creator and crea on.
 Allusion: References to cosmic events and the forging of the ger.
Unit:-3

#William Wordsworth – "Daffodils" (1807)

12. William Wordsworth – "Daffodils" (1807)

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "I wandered lonely as a cloud":
o The speaker describes feeling alone and aimlessly walking, like a cloud
dri ing through the sky.
2. "That floats on high o’er vales and hills,":
o The speaker compares the cloud's movement to the wide expanses of
valleys and hills, emphasizing freedom and solitude.
3. "When all at once I saw a crowd, A host, of golden daffodils;":
o The speaker suddenly spots a large group of daffodils, which appear to be
bright and beau ful like a crowd of people.
4. "Beside the lake, beneath the trees, Flu ering and dancing in the breeze.":
o The daffodils are swaying gently in the wind near a lake, crea ng a lively
and joyful scene.
5. "Con nuous as the stars that shine And twinkle on the milky way,":
o The daffodils seem to stretch endlessly, like the stars in the sky, sparkling
and abundant.
6. "They stretched in never-ending line Along the margin of a bay;":
o The daffodils line the edge of a bay, forming a long, unbroken row.
7. "Ten thousand saw I at a glance, Tossing their heads in sprightly dance.":
o The speaker imagines seeing thousands of daffodils all at once, their heads
moving in the wind as though dancing.
8. "The waves beside them danced; but they Out-did the sparkling waves in glee:":
 o The daffodils seem even more joyful than the waves in the lake, outshining
them with their liveliness.
9. "A poet could not but be gay, In such a jocund company:":
o The speaker suggests that anyone, especially a poet, would feel joyful and
inspired in the company of such beau ful daffodils.
10. "I gazed—and gazed—but li le thought What wealth the show to me had
brought:":
o The speaker enjoys the scene but does not ini ally realize how deeply it
affects him.
11. "For o , when on my couch I lie In vacant or in pensive mood,":
o Later, when the speaker is res ng and feeling reflec ve, the memory of the
daffodils returns.
12. "They flash upon that inward eye Which is the bliss of solitude;":
o The memory of the daffodils reappears in his mind, bringing happiness and
a sense of peace during solitary moments.
13. "And then my heart with pleasure fills, And dances with the daffodils.":
o The speaker feels joyful and upli ed by the memory of the daffodils, as
though he is dancing with them in spirit.

2. Elaborate Summary
In "Daffodils," Wordsworth reflects on the beauty of nature and how it can upli the
human spirit. The poem describes the speaker’s experience of walking alone and
encountering a vibrant field of daffodils beside a lake. The daffodils seem to be alive,
dancing and sparkling in the breeze. The speaker is so moved by the sight that it stays with
him long a er he has le . When he feels lonely or contempla ve in the future, the
memory of the daffodils brings him peace and joy. Through this experience, Wordsworth
emphasizes the healing and restora ve power of nature.

3. Cri cal Analysis

"Daffodils" is a quintessen al example of Roman c poetry, where the natural world is
revered for its ability to evoke deep emo onal and spiritual responses. Wordsworth’s use
of vivid imagery, like "golden daffodils" and "flu ering and dancing in the breeze," creates
a lively and celebratory picture of nature. The poem highlights the therapeu c effect of
nature on the human soul, reflec ng the Roman c belief in nature’s capacity to nurture
the imagina on and emo ons. The shi from external observa on to inner reflec on in
the final stanzas adds depth to the idea that nature's beauty is a las ng source of comfort.
4. Poet's Intent

Wordsworth aims to convey the idea that nature has the power to upli the human spirit,
providing a deep sense of joy and tranquility. The poem suggests that moments of
connec on with nature can remain with us, con nuing to inspire us in moments of
solitude.

5. Themes
 Nature’s Healing Power: Nature’s beauty and serenity offer comfort and joy.
 The Power of Memory: The las ng impact of nature on the mind and spirit.
 Solitude and Reflec on: The speaker finds solace in nature’s memories during
moments of introspec on.
 Inspira on from Nature: Nature as a source of ar s c and emo onal inspira on.

6. Figures of Speech
 Imagery: Vivid visual descrip ons of the daffodils, lake, and surrounding landscape.
 Personifica on: The daffodils are given human-like quali es, such as dancing and
flu ering.
 Metaphor: The daffodils represent joy, life, and the beauty of nature.
 Simile: "Con nuous as the stars that shine" compares the endless daffodils to stars
in the sky.
 Allitera on: "Tossing their heads in sprightly dance" uses repe on of consonant
sounds to create rhythm.
#S.T. Coleridge – "Kubla Khan" (1816)

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "In Xanadu did Kubla Khan A stately pleasure dome decree":
o Kubla Khan, the ruler of the Mongol Empire, ordered the construc on of a
grand pleasure palace in the city of Xanadu.
2. "Where Alph, the sacred river, ran Through caverns measureless to man":
o The river Alph flows through vast, mysterious caves, adding a sense of the
unknown and the magical.
3. "Down to a sunless sea. So twice five miles of fer le ground With walls and towers
were girdled round":

o The palace is surrounded by fer le land, with walls and towers protec ng it,
crea ng an image of an isolated paradise.
4. "And there were gardens bright with sinuous rills, Where blossomed many an
incense-bearing tree;":
o The gardens are full of winding streams, and trees that give off a fragrant
smell, evoking an exo c, dreamlike atmosphere.
5. "And here were forests ancient as the hills, Enfolding sunny spots of greenery.":
o The poem describes ancient forests that protect areas of sunlight and
greenery, sugges ng the harmony between nature and the palace.
6. "But oh! that deep roman c chasm which slanted Down the green hill athwart a
cedarn cover!":
o The speaker describes a deep, roman c ravine, cu ng across the hill,
adding an element of mystery and beauty.

7. "A savage place! As holy and enchanted As e’er beneath a waning moon was
haunted":
o The place is wild and sacred, as if it is magical, haunted by spirits, and full of
mystery.
8. "By woman wailing for her demon-lover!":
o This line suggests an eerie, supernatural atmosphere, as if the place is
cursed or haunted by tragic love stories.
 9. "And from this chasm, with ceaseless turmoil seething, As if this earth in fast thick
pants were breathing,":
o The chasm is full of turbulence and energy, like the earth is breathing
heavily, adding to the intense and chao c image.
10. "A mighty fountain momently was forced: Amid whose swi half-intermi ed burst,
Huge fragments vaulted like rebounding hail,":
o A powerful fountain rises and falls, with water burs ng forth in massive
sprays, resembling hailstones bouncing off the ground.
11. "And ne’er heard voices ceased to play.":
o The speaker senses an ongoing, ethereal sound, as though the voices of the
past are s ll heard in the air.
12. "The shadow of the dome of pleasure Floated midway on the waves;":
o The image of the dome is reflected on the water, crea ng a dreamlike
atmosphere of beauty and mystery.
13. "It was a miracle of rare device, A sunny pleasure-dome with caves of ice!":
o The palace is described as a miraculous, enchan ng crea on, combining
warmth and cold, beauty and danger, crea ng a contrast of opposites.

2. Elaborate Summary
"Kubla Khan" is a visionary poem that presents the image of a magnificent palace built by
the emperor Kubla Khan in the exo c city of Xanadu. The poem vividly describes the
se ng, with rivers, gardens, forests, and mys cal chasms. This fantas cal world is a blend
of natural beauty and eerie, supernatural elements. The palace, a symbol of earthly power
and beauty, is reflected in the waters, which enhances the dreamlike quality of the scene.
The poem evokes a sense of wonder and mystery, blending roman c imagery with themes
of power, nature, and the unknown.

3. Cri cal Analysis

Coleridge’s "Kubla Khan" is a fragmentary work that showcases his mastery in crea ng
vivid, mys cal imagery. The poem is o en interpreted as a reflec on on the power of the
imagina on and the struggle between crea on and destruc on. The descrip on of the
palace and the river captures both beauty and chaos, revealing the dual nature of human
experience. The supernatural elements, such as the "savage place" and "demon-lover,"
emphasize the mysterious and uncontrollable forces of nature. The combina on of beauty,
power, and supernatural disturbance suggests that crea on is a complex and enigma c
process.
4. Poet's Intent

Coleridge's primary aim in "Kubla Khan" is to evoke the power and mystery of imagina on
through vivid and surreal imagery. The poem is a reflec on on the crea ve process,
showing how beauty and chaos coexist. The incomplete nature of the poem (as Coleridge
claimed it was interrupted) also highlights the flee ng and elusive quality of ar s c
inspira on.

5. Themes
 Imagina on and Crea vity: The power of the imagina on to create worlds of
beauty and mystery.
 The Sublime in Nature: The awe-inspiring, overwhelming aspects of nature and
human crea on.
 Beauty and Chaos: The coexistence of beauty and chaos, both in nature and in
human endeavors.
 Power and Mystery: The mysterious and powerful forces that govern both nature
and the human mind.

6. Figures of Speech
 Imagery: The vivid descrip ons of the palace, river, and landscape create a
dreamlike and surreal atmosphere.
 Allitera on: "Sinuous rills," "rebounding hail," and other repeated consonant
sounds create a rhythmic effect.

 Metaphor: The palace is a metaphor for the mind’s crea ve power.

 Personifica on: The river is described as "sacred" and the earth as "breathing,"
giving them human-like quali es.
 Juxtaposi on: The contrasts between "sunny pleasure-dome" and "caves of ice"
highlight the blending of opposites.
# Lord Byron – "When We Two Parted" (1816)

14. Lord Byron – "When We Two Parted" (1816)

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "When we two parted In silence and tears,":
o The speaker reflects on a painful separa on from a loved one, marked by
quiet sadness and tears.
2. "Half-broken-hearted To sever for years,":
o The separa on le the speaker emo onally broken, and it seems like it will
last for many years.
3. "Pale grew thy cheek and cold, Colder thy kiss;":
o The lover’s appearance became pale, and their kiss lost its warmth,
symbolizing the fading of their love.
4. "Truly that hour foretold Sorrow to this.":
o The moment of par ng seemed to predict the deep sorrow that the speaker
would experience a erward.
5. "The dew of the morning Sank chill on my brow,":
o The morning dew feels cold on the speaker's forehead, reflec ng the
sadness and emo onal chill they feel.
6. "It felt like the warning Of what I feel now.":
o The speaker compares the coldness of the morning dew to the feelings they
have now, sugges ng a sense of foreboding.
7. "Thy vows are all broken, And light is thy fame:":
o The lover’s promises have been sha ered, and their reputa on has become
tarnished.
8. "I hear thy name spoken, And share in its shame.":
o The speaker hears the lover’s name and feels the same shame or dishonor,
perhaps due to the nature of the breakup.
9. "They name thee before me, A knell to my ear;":
 o Hearing the lover’s name is painful for the speaker, like the sound of a
funeral bell, symbolizing the end of the rela onship.
10. "A shudder comes o’er me— Why wert thou so dear?":
o The speaker is overwhelmed with emo on, wondering why they cared so
deeply for someone who caused them so much pain.
11. "They know not I knew thee, Who knew thee too well:":
o The speaker feels that others do not understand the depth of the
rela onship they shared, as they knew their lover too in mately.
12. "Long, long shall I rue thee, Too deeply to tell.":
o The speaker will regret the rela onship for a long me, and the pain is too
deep to express in words.
13. "In secret we met— In silence I grieve,":
o The rela onship was secret, and now the speaker mourns it in silence,
reflec ng the sorrow and loss of the affair.
14. "That thy heart could forget, Thy spirit deceive.":
o The speaker expresses disbelief that the lover could forget them and
deceive themselves, sugges ng betrayal.
15. "If I should meet thee A er long years,":
o The speaker imagines encountering the lover years later.
16. "How should I greet thee? With silence and tears.":
o If they met again, the speaker would greet them with silence and tears,
showing the las ng emo onal scars from the separa on.

2. Elaborate Summary
In "When We Two Parted," Lord Byron reflects on the sorrow and heartache caused by a
painful breakup. The poem describes the ini al par ng, filled with silence, tears, and
emo onal distance, and the las ng impact it has on the speaker. Over me, the speaker
feels the shame associated with the breakup, and even hearing the lover's name causes
pain. Despite the passage of me, the speaker’s sorrow remains, and they wonder why
they cared so deeply for someone who has betrayed them. The poem ends with the
speaker contempla ng what would happen if they met their former lover again,
sugges ng that the emo onal wounds of separa on would never fully heal.

3. Cri cal Analysis

Byron’s poem captures the raw emo ons of love, betrayal, and loss. The repe on of
silence and tears throughout the poem emphasizes the profound grief that the speaker
experiences. The speaker’s feelings of betrayal are heightened by the imagery of coldness
and death, such as the "pale" cheek and "colder" kiss, which symbolizes the emo onal
distance between them. The secrecy of the rela onship adds an element of forbidden
love, heightening the sense of shame and regret. The tone of the poem is melancholic, as
the speaker remains haunted by the past, and the final lines suggest that me cannot
erase the pain caused by the lover’s betrayal.

4. Poet's Intent
Byron’s intent in "When We Two Parted" is to convey the deep emo onal pain caused by a
breakup, par cularly when it involves betrayal and loss of trust. Through vivid, sorrowful
imagery, he explores how love and regret intertwine, showing that the wounds of such a
separa on may never fully heal. The poem is a reflec on on the complexity of
rela onships and the lingering impact of emo onal betrayal.

5. Themes
 Love and Loss: The sorrow and regret that come with the end of a deep emo onal
connec on.
 Betrayal and Heartbreak: The pain caused by a lover's betrayal and the emo onal
distance it creates.
 Memory and Regret: The las ng effects of a rela onship that has ended in pain and
secrecy.

 Silence and Sorrow: The use of silence as a symbol of unresolved grief and
emo onal pain.

6. Figures of Speech
 Imagery: Vivid descrip ons of the coldness, silence, and grief, enhancing the
emo onal impact of the poem.
 Metaphor: "A knell to my ear" compares hearing the lover's name to the sound of
a funeral bell, symbolizing death and loss.
 Personifica on: The "dew of the morning" and "warning" evoke a sense of
foreboding, making the morning seem ominous.
 Allitera on: "Silence and tears" and other repeated consonant sounds contribute
to the somber tone of the poem.
  Rhetorical Ques on: "Why wert thou so dear?" is a ques on that highlights the
speaker’s confusion and pain over the love they once felt.

#P.B. Shelley – "Ozymandias" (1818)

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "I met a traveler from an an que land Who said: Two vast and trunkless legs of
stone Stand in the desert. Near them on the sand, Half-sunk, a sha ered visage
lies, whose frown And wrinkled lip, and sneer of cold command, Tell that its
sculptor well those passions read Which yet survive, stamped on these lifeless
things,":
o The speaker recounts mee ng a traveler who describes a ruin in the desert.
The traveler men ons two large stone legs and a broken statue's face, which
s ll shows signs of a proud, commanding expression, indica ng the power the
statue once represented.
2. "The hand that mocked them and the heart that fed. And on the pedestal these
words appear: My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings; Look on my Works, ye
Mighty, and despair! Nothing beside remains. Round the decay Of that colossal
wreck, boundless and bare, The lone and level sands stretch far away.":
o The pedestal of the statue has an inscrip on claiming that Ozymandias is a
great ruler. The traveler reflects on the irony that, while Ozymandias once
boasted of his greatness, now nothing remains of his works but ruins, and the
desert has overtaken everything.

2. Elaborate Summary
In "Ozymandias," Shelley reflects on the flee ng nature of human power and the inevitable
decay of all things. The poem begins with the speaker recoun ng a story told by a traveler
who encountered a ruined statue in the desert. The statue of a once-great king, Ozymandias,
stands broken, with only two legs and a sha ered face remaining. The inscrip on on the
pedestal proclaims the king's greatness and power, urging others to "despair" at his works.
However, in a drama c twist, the traveler reveals that there is nothing le of Ozymandias’s
empire but ruins, with the desert sands stretching endlessly around the remnants. The poem
highlights the transient nature of human achievements, showing that even the greatest
empires and rulers will eventually fade into oblivion.

3. Cri cal Analysis

"Ozymandias" is a powerful medita on on the impermanence of power and the hubris of
rulers who believe their achievements will last forever. Shelley uses irony to emphasize the
message: Ozymandias, in his arrogance, believed his empire would endure, but all that
remains is a broken statue in a desolate desert. The poem contrasts the king's boas ul
inscrip on with the reality of his fallen empire. The desolate se ng of the statue,
surrounded by endless sands, reinforces the idea of decay and the passage of me. Shelley’s
use of vivid imagery, such as "lone and level sands" and "colossal wreck," strengthens the
poem's theme of the fu lity of human pride. The poem also suggests that nature, in its
vastness and permanence, outlasts human ambi on.

4. Poet's Intent
Shelley’s intent in wri ng "Ozymandias" is to show the transience of human power and the
fu lity of boas ng about one's greatness. Through the ruined statue, Shelley cri ques the
arrogance of rulers and emphasizes the inevitability of decay and the passage of me. The
poem serves as a reminder that no ma er how powerful a person or empire may seem, me
will eventually erode their legacy.

5. Themes
 The Impermanence of Power: The poem illustrates how even the migh est rulers
and empires eventually crumble.
 The Hubris of Human Beings: Ozymandias’s pride and arrogance in believing his
empire would last forever is a central theme.
 Nature's Triumph over Human Endeavors: The endless desert surrounding the ruins
suggests that nature is eternal, while human achievements are flee ng.
 The Irony of Human Achievement: The poem highlights the contrast between
Ozymandias’s boas ul inscrip on and the ruin of his empire.

6. Figures of Speech
 Imagery: The broken statue, the "lone and level sands," and the "colossal wreck"
create a vivid image of decay and desola on.
 Irony: The inscrip on on the statue encourages others to look upon Ozymandias’s
works and "despair," yet the ruins show there is nothing le to boast about.
  Allitera on: "Look on my Works, ye Mighty" uses repe on of consonant sounds to
add rhythm and emphasis.
 Metaphor: The "colossal wreck" symbolizes the collapse of Ozymandias’s power and
empire.
 Juxtaposi on: The contrast between the king's proud declara on and the reality of
the ruined statue emphasizes the theme of impermanence.

# John Keats – "Ode to a Nigh ngale" (1818)

16. John Keats – "Ode to a Nigh ngale" (1818)

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "My heart aches, and a drowsy numbness pains My sense, as though of hemlock I
had drunk, Or emp ed some dull opiate to the drains One minute past, and Lethe-
wards had sunk":
o The speaker feels a deep, dull ache in their heart and a sense of numbness, as
if they have consumed a poison or drug that dulls their senses and
consciousness. Lethe refers to the river of forge ulness in Greek mythology,
implying that the speaker wishes to escape their reality.
2. "‘Tis not through envy of thy happy lot, But being too happy in thine happiness,—
That thou, light-winged Dryad of the trees In some melodious plot":
o The speaker does not envy the nigh ngale's happiness but instead feels
overwhelmed by the bird’s joyful existence. The nigh ngale is described as a
"Dryad," a spirit of the tree, sugges ng its natural and carefree life.
3. "Of beechen green, and shadows numberless, Singest of summer in full-throated
ease.":
o The nigh ngale sings in a place filled with green trees and countless shadows,
symbolizing a peaceful, eternal summer where the bird’s song is effortlessly
beau ful.
4. "O, for a draught of vintage! that hath been Cool’d a long age in the deep-delvèd
earth, Tas ng of Flora and the country green, Dance, and Provençal song, and
sunburnt mirth!":
o The speaker yearns for a drink of wine that has aged for centuries, infused
with the essence of nature, joy, and celebra on, embodying the beauty and
vitality of life.
5. "O for a beaker full of the warm South, Full of the true, the blushful Hippocrene,
With beaded bubbles winking at the brim, And purple-stained mouth;":
o The speaker longs for a drink of the "warm South," represen ng the warmth
and vitality of life, with the magical "Hippocrene" (a mythical spring) offering
an elixir of inspira on and joy.
6. "That I might drink, and leave the world unseen, And with thee fade away into the
forest dim":
o The speaker wishes to escape the harsh reali es of the world and fade away
into the dreamlike, peaceful world of the nigh ngale's song.
7. "Fade far away, dissolve, and quite forget What thou among the leaves hast never
known, The weariness, the fever, and the fret Here, where men sit and hear each
other groan;":
o The speaker imagines escaping into the nigh ngale's world, where the bird
knows nothing of human suffering, pain, and the burdens of life.
8. "Where palsy shakes a few, sad, last gray hairs, Where youth grows pale, and
spectre-thin, and dies; Where but to think is to be full of sorrow And leaden-eyed
despairs,":

o The poem contrasts the nigh ngale's carefree existence with the harsh
reali es of human life, where aging, sorrow, and despair overshadow youth
and vitality.
9. "Where Beauty cannot keep her lustrous eyes, Or new Love pine at them beyond
to-morrow.":
o Beauty and love fade with me, and the speaker reflects on the transitory
nature of these ideals in the human world.
10. "Away! away! for I will fly to thee, Not charioted by Bacchus and his pards, But on
the viewless wings of Poesy, Though the dull brain perplexes and retards:"
o The speaker decides to escape not through wine (Bacchus) but through
poetry (Poesy), seeking to transcend the limita ons of the human mind and
imagina on.
11. "Already with thee! tender is the night, And haply the Queen-Moon is on her
throne, Cluster’d around by all her starry Fays; But here there is no light, Save what
 from heaven is with the breezes blown Through verdurous glooms and winding
mossy ways.":
o The speaker feels they are already in the nigh ngale’s world, where the moon
and stars illuminate the peaceful night, and nature is alive with beauty.
12. "I cannot see what flowers are at my feet, Nor what so incense hangs upon the
boughs, But, in embalmed darkness, guess each sweet Wherewith the seasonable
month endows The grass, the thicket, and the fruit-tree wild;":
o In the dark, the speaker cannot see the flowers or the incense, but they
imagine the scents and sensa ons of nature around them, feeling connected
to the world in a deeper, more spiritual way.
13. "I cannot see what flowers are at my feet, Nor what so incense hangs upon the
boughs, But, in embalmed darkness, guess each sweet Wherewith the seasonable
month endows The grass, the thicket, and the fruit-tree wild;":
o The speaker is overwhelmed by a sense of beauty and peacefulness, finding
solace in nature, even when the details are hidden by darkness.
14. "Thou wast not born for death, immortal Bird! No hungry genera ons stop thee in
thy track, Singest of summer in full-throated ease.":
o The nigh ngale is described as immortal, transcending the limita ons of
human life and death. Its song is eternal, and it lives outside the constraints
of me.

2. Elaborate Summary
In "Ode to a Nigh ngale," John Keats contrasts the ephemeral nature of human life with the
eternal, carefree existence of a nigh ngale. The poem begins with the speaker feeling numb
and yearning for escape from human suffering. Upon hearing the nigh ngale’s song, the
speaker longs to join the bird in its ideal world, free from pain and aging. The nigh ngale's
song represents a meless, pure form of happiness, which contrasts with the weariness and
sorrow of human existence. As the speaker reflects on the transience of life and beauty, they
ul mately seek refuge in the bird’s song, which serves as a symbol of eternal joy and peace.
However, the poem concludes with the realiza on that the nigh ngale is not truly immortal;
it is a metaphor for the escape into an ideal world that cannot last forever.

3. Cri cal Analysis

"Ode to a Nigh ngale" is a rich explora on of the tension between reality and the ideal.
Keats uses the nigh ngale as a symbol of transcendence, eternal beauty, and poe c
inspira on, juxtaposed with the harshness of human existence. The poem’s movement from
despair to transcendence, and then to the realiza on of impermanence, mirrors the
experience of seeking escape from suffering through art or beauty, only to realize that such
escapes are flee ng. The contrast between the nigh ngale’s song and the human condi on
highlights the poet’s fascina on with mortality, the passage of me, and the search for
meaning in a world that inevitably decays.

4. Poet's Intent
Keats wrote "Ode to a Nigh ngale" to explore the themes of mortality, beauty, and the
contrast between the human world and an idealized existence. Through the nigh ngale,
Keats presents the possibility of escape from human suffering and death through art and
beauty, yet he ul mately acknowledges that such escapes are temporary. The poem reflects
Keats’s medita on on the power and limita ons of the imagina on in overcoming the
challenges of life.

5. Themes
 Mortality and the Transience of Life: The flee ng nature of beauty and human
existence is contrasted with the eternal song of the nigh ngale.
 Escape through Art and Beauty: The nigh ngale represents a form of escape from
the hardships of life, par cularly through the power of music and nature.
 Imagina on vs. Reality: The tension between the ideal world the speaker imagines
and the reality of human suffering.
 Immortality of Art and Nature: The nigh ngale's song symbolizes something eternal
and untouchable by human limita ons.

6. Figures of Speech
 Imagery: Keats uses rich visual and auditory imagery, such as "full-throated ease"
and "verdurous glooms," to evoke a sense of the natural world.
 Metaphor: The nigh ngale is a metaphor for the transcendence of art and the ideal
world.
 Personifica on: The moon and stars are personified as "Queen-Moon" and "Fays,"
adding a mys cal quality to the scene.
 Allitera on: "Tender is the night" and other repeated sounds enhance the poem’s
lyrical flow.
 Juxtaposi on: The contrast between the nigh ngale’s eternal beauty and the human
world’s suffering emphasizes the poem's central themes.
Unit:-4

Alfred Tennyson – "Ulysses" (1842)

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "It li le profits that an idle king, By this s ll hearth, among these barren crags,
Matched with an aged wife, I mete and dole Unequal laws unto a savage race, That
hoard, and sleep, and feed, and know not me."
o Ulysses, the speaker, reflects that being a king in old age, living with his
unadventurous wife and governing a primi ve, ungrateful people, brings him
no joy or purpose.
2. "I cannot rest from travel: I will drink Life to the lees: All mes I have enjoyed
Greatly, have suffered greatly, both with those That loved me, and alone; on shore,
and when Through scudding dri s the rainy Hyades Vexed the dim sea: I am
become a name;"
o Ulysses expresses that he cannot stop seeking adventure and life. He has
experienced both joy and suffering, whether with loved ones or alone, and
his name has become legendary.
3. "For always roaming with a hungry heart Much have I seen and known; ci es of
men And manners, climates, councils, governments, Myself not least, but
honoured of them all;"
o He speaks of his endless journey and the wealth of experiences he has had—
mee ng different people, witnessing various cultures, and influencing
governments, earning respect and honor.
4. "And drunk delight of ba le with my peers, Far on the ringing plains of windy Troy.
I am a part of all that I have met; Yet all experience is an arch wherethro’ Gleams
that untraveled world whose margin fades For ever and for ever when I move."
o Ulysses recalls the glory of his past ba les, par cularly in Troy. He feels
connected to everything he has encountered, but he sees life as an ongoing
journey into the unknown, with new horizons always ahead.
5. "How dull it is to pause, to make an end, To rust unburnish’d, not to shine in use!
As though to breathe were life! Life piled on life Were all too li le, and of one to
me Li le remains: but every hour is saved From that eternal silence, something
more, A bringer of new things."
 o Ulysses sees stagna on as death. He cannot bear to simply exist without
purpose. He believes that every moment of life is precious and should be
spent ac vely seeking new experiences.
6. "Death closes all: but something ere the end, Some work of noble note, may yet be
done, Not unbecoming men that strove with Gods."
o He acknowledges that death will eventually come, but he believes there is s ll
me for him to accomplish something great, worthy of his heroic past.
7. "The lights begin to twinkle from the rocks: The long day wanes: the slow moon
climbs: the deep Moans round with many voices. Come, my friends, ‘Tis not too
late to seek a newer world. Push off, and si ng well in order smite The sounding
furrows; for my purpose holds To sail beyond the sunset, and the baths Of all the
western stars, un l I die."
o As night begins to fall, Ulysses rallies his comrades, urging them to embark on
one last journey into the unknown, seeking adventure un l the end of his life.
8. "It may be that the gulfs will wash us down: It may be we shall touch the Happy
Isles, And see the great Achilles, whom we knew. Though much is taken, much
abides; and though We are not now that strength which in old days Moved earth
and heaven, that which we are, we are; One equal temper of heroic hearts, Made
weak by me and fate, but strong in will To strive, to seek, to find, and not to
yield."
o Ulysses acknowledges that death or failure may await them, but he believes
they might also reach a paradise where heroes like Achilles reside. Despite
growing weaker with age, they remain strong in spirit, commi ed to striving
for greatness and never giving up.

2. Elaborate Summary
"Ulysses" by Alfred Lord Tennyson explores the longing of an aging hero who cannot accept
a life of complacency and re rement. The poem is narrated by Ulysses, the legendary king of
Ithaca, who, having grown old, finds himself unsa sfied with his peaceful life. He reflects on
his past adventures, the ba les he fought, the cultures he encountered, and the honor he
earned. Despite being a king, Ulysses feels unfulfilled and restless, yearning for new
experiences and challenges. He cannot bear the thought of living a mundane life and wishes
to embark on one last voyage, seeking adventure un l the end. Though he is aware of his
diminishing strength and the inevitability of death, he resolves to strive and pursue his goals
relentlessly. The poem emphasizes the heroic ideal of enduring strength, courage, and an
unyielding spirit in the face of me and fate.
3. Cri cal Analysis
Tennyson’s "Ulysses" is a poem that highlights themes of restlessness, the human desire for
meaning, and the pursuit of adventure. Ulysses’s character reflects the Victorian ideals of
striving and self-improvement, even in the face of old age and inevitable death. The poem
contrasts the idea of peaceful re rement with the heroic urge to con nue seeking
knowledge and experience. Ulysses’s refusal to yield to the constraints of age and his desire
to achieve something meaningful before he dies reflect the Victorian obsession with
ambi on, explora on, and individualism. The poem’s tone is both heroic and melancholic,
capturing the complexity of a man who has achieved greatness yet s ll feels the deep
yearning for something beyond the ordinary life.

4. Poet's Intent
Tennyson's intent in wri ng "Ulysses" was to explore the concept of heroic will and ambi on
in the face of mortality. He presents Ulysses as a figure who, despite aging, refuses to accept
the limita ons that come with age or the comforts of a se led life. Instead, Ulysses
embodies the idea that life should be lived with purpose, striving for new experiences and
challenges, no ma er how old one becomes. The poem serves as a reflec on on the human
desire to keep pursuing one’s goals and ideals, even in the face of me's inevitable effects.

5. Themes
 Restlessness and the Search for Purpose: Ulysses’s dissa sfac on with a quiet,
inac ve life emphasizes the human need for con nuous striving and growth.
 The Heroic Ideal: The poem celebrates the hero’s determina on, courage, and
refusal to give in to age and weakness.
 Mortality and the Passage of Time: While Ulysses acknowledges his own aging, he
remains determined to live life to its fullest un l the end.
 The Persistence of the Human Spirit: The poem conveys that despite the physical
decline of age, the inner will to achieve and explore remains strong.

6. Figures of Speech
 Metaphor: "The arch wherethro' Gleams that untraveled world" symbolizes the
endless possibili es of life, always ahead.
 Allitera on: "Push off, and si ng well in order smite" uses repe on of sounds for
emphasis and rhythm.
 Anaphora: The repeated use of "It may be" emphasizes uncertainty and the
possibility of an unknown future.
  Personifica on: "The lights begin to twinkle from the rocks" gives human quali es to
the rocks, enhancing the imagery of the evening.
 Juxtaposi on: The contrast between Ulysses’s past strength and his present
weakness underscores the theme of aging and mortality.

. Robert Browning – "My Last Duchess" (1842)

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "That's my last Duchess painted on the wall, Looking as if she were alive. I call That
piece a wonder, now: Frà Pandolf's hands Worked busily a day, and there she
stands."
o The speaker (a Duke) introduces a portrait of his late wife, the Duchess. He
praises the ar st, Frà Pandolf, for capturing her likeness so perfectly that it
seems as if she is alive.
2. "Will’t please you sit and look at her? I said 'Fra Pandolf' by design, for I Was down
at the villa’s garden, I had to call the gallery to inquire about the ar st."
o The Duke invites the listener to admire the portrait, naming the ar st again,
emphasizing the importance of the pain ng and its crea on.
3. "You, sir, you see, that's my last Duchess painted on the wall, Looking as if she were
alive. I call That piece a wonder, now: Frà Pandolf's hands Worked busily a day, and
there she stands."
o The Duke points out that the portrait, though sta c, is a testament to the
Duchess’s beauty. His pride in the work of art is evident, perhaps more so
than his actual emo ons for the Duchess.
4. "Then, all smiles stopped together. There she stands, as if alive. It is the work of Frà
Pandolf’s hand that made it seem so real."
o The Duke seems to refer to his wife's death with an unse ling tone, implying
that the smiling, joyful Duchess in the pain ng stopped smiling for a reason.
 5. "The only thing that’s le now of her beauty."
o This line shows the Duke's possessiveness over her image, implying that the
only way he can keep her beauty is through the portrait, now that she is
gone.
6. "We get out of control, we don't want it we do not need it."
o The Duke’s speech shi s to self-assurance that he would hold his wife
responsible, sugges ng he felt she was no longer deserving of praise.

2. Elaborate Summary
"My Last Duchess" by Robert Browning is a drama c monologue delivered by a Duke,
speaking to a visitor who has come to nego ate the Duke’s next marriage. He begins by
showing the visitor a portrait of his late wife, the Duchess. The Duke recounts how much he
admired the portrait and her beauty, yet he subtly alludes to the fact that she was not
en rely to his liking. The Duchess was kind and flirted with everyone, according to the Duke,
and this displeased him. He insinuates that he was responsible for her death because of her
disobedience. The Duke then moves on to speak about his future bride and his expecta ons
of her behavior. The poem is an explora on of power, control, and the possessiveness of the
Duke. It reveals the Duke’s cold, authoritarian nature and his sense of en tlement over his
wife's life and image.

3. Cri cal Analysis

"My Last Duchess" explores themes of power, control, and the objec fica on of women. The
Duke reveals himself to be a man who values his wife’s beauty but is more concerned with
his own pride and reputa on. The Duchess’s kindness, her apparent ability to smile at
anyone, and her joy in life are seen by the Duke as flaws, as they undermine his authority
and control over her. The poem reveals the Duke’s ego sm and possessiveness, hin ng that
he may have had a hand in the Duchess’s un mely death. Browning uses the drama c
monologue form effec vely to convey the Duke's self-centered nature, as his words, though
subtle, expose his cold, calcula ng personality. The Duke’s ability to view his wife merely as
an object to be admired, controlled, and disposed of at will makes the poem a commentary
on the dangers of unchecked power and privilege.
4. Poet's Intent
Browning's intent in wri ng "My Last Duchess" was to explore the dark side of human
nature, par cularly in terms of the power dynamics between men and women in a
patriarchal society. The Duke’s monologue exposes the dangers of absolute power and how
it can dehumanize others, par cularly women, making them mere possessions or trophies.
Browning uses this drama c monologue to cri que the way the Duke treats his wife as a
commodity, revealing the moral flaws of a man who seeks to control others for his own
benefit.

5. Themes
 Power and Control: The Duke’s possessiveness and manipula on of the Duchess
highlight the theme of power in rela onships.
 Jealousy and Obsession: The Duke’s jealousy over his wife’s behavior and his
obsession with her beauty lead to her downfall.
 Objec fica on of Women: The Duchess is seen as a mere object of admira on and
control, rather than a person with autonomy.
 Morality and Corrup on: The Duke’s lack of remorse or guilt over his wife’s death
shows his moral corrup on, as he views her death as a minor inconvenience.

6. Figures of Speech
 Irony: The Duke’s statement, "I gave commands; then all smiles stopped together," is
deeply ironic, as he implies he had his wife killed for her behavior, yet does so
without any remorse.
 Metaphor: The pain ng of the Duchess represents her objec fica on and the Duke’s
control over her even a er her death.
 Enjambment: The lines spill over from one to the next without punctua on,
reflec ng the Duke’s con nuous, uninterrupted flow of self-jus fica on and
arrogance.
 Allusion: The reference to "Frà Pandolf" alludes to the famous ar st, adding a layer
of credibility and respect to the Duke's possession of the portrait.
Dante Gabriel Rosse – "The Blessed Damozel" (1850)

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "The blessed damozel leaned out From the gold bar of Heaven; Her eyes were
deeper than the depth Of waters s lled at even; She had three lilies in her hand,
And the stars in her hair were seven."
o The "blessed damozel" (a young woman) is described as standing at the gates
of Heaven. She gazes down, her eyes more profound than the calm waters,
holding three lilies, symbolizing purity, while seven stars are in her hair,
signifying a heavenly, divine beauty.
2. "Her robe, ungirt from clasp to hem, No wrought flowers did adorn, But a white
rose of her own, the rare, The perfect flower, the one the earth Wears in full
bloom."
o The damozel’s robe is simple and unadorned, except for a white rose—
symbolizing purity and chas ty, one that blooms in perfec on, represen ng
her innocence.
3. "She sang, and her voice had no voice at all, But the sound of angel’s song, Its pure
and silken overtones, the music of Heaven’s chosen."
o Her voice was not a regular sound but like the voices of angels, so and
perfect, resona ng with the purity of Heaven.
4. "The world is coming down, the dark night’s wai ng, And now that you are gone, I
stand alone, And yet I long to meet you, beau ful and divine."
o The damozel yearns to be reunited with the one she loved on Earth, longing
for their eternal togetherness, though she is aware of the separa on between
the realms.

2. Elaborate Summary
"The Blessed Damozel" by Dante Gabriel Rosse is a roman c and melancholic poem that
explores the themes of love, loss, and the longing for eternal union in the a erlife. The
poem opens with the image of a beau ful young woman, the "blessed damozel," leaning out
from Heaven, her gaze directed toward Earth. She holds lilies, symbols of purity, and is
surrounded by a serene, heavenly aura, signified by the seven stars in her hair and her
simple yet elegant dress. The damozel is portrayed as a symbol of eternal beauty, innocence,
and love. She sings a song with a voice that is ethereal, beyond earthly sounds, embodying
the perfec on of Heaven.
The damozel’s thoughts are filled with love for a man she le behind on Earth. She expresses
her sorrow at their separa on, but despite the distance, she believes in the eventual
reunion. The poem illustrates the deep emo onal connec on between the damozel and her
lover, showing how love transcends even the boundaries of life and death. The imagery
throughout the poem emphasizes beauty, purity, and longing, crea ng a sense of both peace
and melancholy.

3. Cri cal Analysis

"The Blessed Damozel" is a symbol of idealized love and spiritual longing. Rosse uses rich,
vivid imagery to create a sense of heavenly perfec on, especially in his portrayal of the
damozel. The simplicity of her robe, the purity of the white rose, and the ethereal quality of
her voice all symbolize a love that is untainted by earthly concerns. The poem also
emphasizes the tension between the realms of Heaven and Earth, with the damozel’s
longing to be reunited with her lover in a perfect, eternal union.
The poem can be seen as an explora on of the Pre-Raphaelite movement’s ideals, especially
the glorifica on of women and the idealiza on of pure love. The damozel is a figure of both
sorrow and hope, as her love is immortal but unfulfilled. Through this, Rosse reflects on
the powerful emo ons ed to love, loss, and the hope of reunion, which transcends me
and space.

4. Poet's Intent
Rosse ’s intent in wri ng "The Blessed Damozel" was to explore the idea of love that does
not end with death. Through the damozel’s longing for her lover, Rosse illustrates the idea
that love is eternal, and despite the physical separa on between the realms of Heaven and
Earth, spiritual love con nues. The poem reflects the Pre-Raphaelite ideals of beauty,
spiritual purity, and the search for an idealized, almost una ainable love. Rosse wanted to
evoke both the melancholy of separa on and the hope for eventual union in the a erlife.

5. Themes
 Eternal Love and Longing: The damozel's longing for her lover highlights the theme
of love that transcends the separa on of death.
 Beauty and Purity: The damozel’s physical and spiritual beauty symbolizes purity,
innocence, and heavenly love.
 Separa on and Reunion: The tension between the realms of Heaven and Earth
reflects the longing for reunion with loved ones in the a erlife.
 Spiritualism and the A erlife: The poem delves into the idea of spiritual love
con nuing a er death, focusing on the a erlife and the hope for eternal union.
6. Figures of Speech

 Imagery: The vivid descrip on of the damozel, her dress, and the symbols of Heaven
create strong visual imagery, reinforcing the sense of purity and divine beauty.
 Metaphor: The damozel’s voice is described as having "no voice at all, but the sound
of angel’s song," a metaphor for the otherworldly, divine nature of her being.
 Symbolism: The white rose symbolizes purity, and the seven stars in her hair
symbolize perfec on and divine beauty.
 Allitera on: “Sang, and her voice had no voice” repeats the "v" sound, adding to the
musicality of the poem.

Ma hew Arnold – "Dover Beach" (1867)

1. Line-by-Line Explana on
1. "The sea is calm to-night. The de is full, the moon lies fair Upon the straits; on the
French coast the light Gleams and is gone; the cliffs of England stand, Glimmering
and vast, out in the tranquil bay."

o The speaker describes a peaceful, calm night at the sea. The moonlight
reflects on the water, and the distant lights of France can be seen across the
channel. The cliffs of England are visible in the calm bay, crea ng a tranquil
scene.
2. "Come to the window, sweet is the night-air! Only, from the long line of spray
Where the water / Knocks against the shore of the rock That stood... this is a signal
of the coast."
o The speaker invites someone to come and enjoy the cool night air. The sound
of waves crashing against the shore provides a rhythmic backdrop to the
peaceful night scene.
 3. "But now, there is the new sorrow in mind— Let’s enjoy together the scene of
final...
o The speaker shi s focus to a deeper thought, acknowledging a new sorrow
within their mind, perhaps a realiza on about the impermanence of things.
4. "The world is ever changing."

2. Elaborate Summary
"Dover Beach" by Ma hew Arnold is a melancholic reflec on on the loss of faith and the
decline of certainty in the world. The poem begins by describing the serene natural
landscape of Dover, with calm seas and a tranquil atmosphere. However, the peaceful
external scene contrasts with the speaker’s inner turmoil. The speaker invites someone to
join in the beauty of the night, but the calmness of the se ng soon gives way to feelings of
despair and disillusionment.

As the poem progresses, the speaker reflects on how the world has changed, especially in
terms of faith and human connec on. The "Sea of Faith," once full and strong, is now
receding, leaving humanity in a world of uncertainty and doubt. The speaker mourns the
loss of religious and moral certainty, and the poem ends on a note of sorrow, as the speaker
contemplates a world devoid of the comfort and stability once provided by faith.

3. Cri cal Analysis

"Dover Beach" presents a contrast between the calmness of the natural world and the
unrest of the human soul. Arnold uses the sea and its des as a metaphor for the shi ing
nature of faith in the modern world. The "Sea of Faith" symbolizes the strength and certainty
of religious belief, which has diminished over me. The retreat of the sea represents the loss
of this certainty, leaving humanity in a state of confusion and despair. The poem cri ques
the state of the world, reflec ng Arnold's concerns about the decline of religious faith and
the rise of doubt during the Victorian era.
The speaker’s shi from observing the external world to reflec ng on the internal world
highlights the tension between appearances and reality. While the external world may
appear calm and peaceful, the internal world is filled with sorrow and uncertainty. Arnold’s
use of natural imagery and symbolism effec vely conveys the emo onal and intellectual
crisis faced by the speaker.
4. Poet's Intent
Ma hew Arnold’s inten on in wri ng "Dover Beach" was to express the feelings of
disillusionment and uncertainty that characterized the Victorian era. With the decline of
tradi onal religious beliefs and the rise of scien fic reasoning, many people began to
ques on their faith and their place in the world. Arnold uses the metaphor of the receding
sea to represent the loss of faith, urging readers to reflect on the emp ness that comes with
this loss. Through the poem, Arnold explores the tension between the natural world, which
seems peaceful, and the human soul, which is filled with doubt and sorrow.

5. Themes
 Loss of Faith and Certainty: The poem explores the decline of religious faith and
moral certainty, symbolized by the receding "Sea of Faith."
 Uncertainty and Doubt: The poem conveys a sense of uncertainty about the world
and humanity’s place in it, reflec ng the intellectual and spiritual crisis of the
Victorian era.
 Nature vs. Humanity: The contrast between the serene natural world and the
turmoil within the human soul highlights the dissonance between appearance and
reality.
 Melancholy and Despair: The speaker’s reflec on on the loss of faith and the
impermanence of life evokes feelings of sorrow and despair.

6. Figures of Speech
 Metaphor: The "Sea of Faith" is a metaphor for religious belief and spiritual certainty.
The receding de symbolizes the decline of faith in the modern world.
 Imagery: Arnold uses vivid natural imagery, such as the calm sea, moonlight, and the
French coast, to create a peaceful se ng that contrasts with the speaker's inner
turmoil.
 Allitera on: Phrases like "The de is full" and "The cliffs of England stand" use
allitera on to create a rhythmic flow, adding to the musical quality of the poem.
 Personifica on: The sea is personified as "The Sea of Faith," with its des
symbolizing the rise and fall of human belief.