Power & Conflict Anthology Flashcards

Mans abuse of power - that causes the sufferings of others - is ephemeral whilst the power of nature remains eternal

Key method: Semantic field of decay ('remains' , 'wreck' , 'lifeless' , 'wrinkled') Key structural device: Sonnet ( Idea 1: His [leaders] love for power and desire to keep it OR Idea 2: Shelley's love for nature and it's eternal power [as he's a romantic poet)

From Ozymandias, reflects how mans power is ephemeral as the statue is crumbling ('visage'), 'shattered' reflects deliberate actions - the suffering leaders cause is intentional

From Ozymandias, 'wrinkled' -> reinforces that mans power is ephemeral. 'sneer' -> connotations of disgust -> leaders have disregard/ apathy for those 'inferior' to them

Criticises the suffering of citizens caused by institutions like the church/monarchy/government. Suggests that poverty, child labour and misery are not accidental but caused by corrupt systems that chose to abuse their power

Key method: Metaphor (3 quotes we analysed are metaphors) Structural device: Repetition

Reflects the physical and emotional suffering of the people in London. Repetition of 'marks' emphasises the widespread impact of oppression and misery.

Symbolises the psychological oppression and lack of freedom caused by societal structures. 'Manacles' suggests imprisonment, linking to themes of control and restriction.

Criticises the monarchy and ruling class for their complicity in the suffering of the people. 'Blood' symbolises violence and sacrifice, while 'palace walls' highlight the divide between the oppressed and the powerful.

nature is portrayed as a powerful, almost divine force that humbles the speaker, reminding humanity of its smallness and vulnerability, it is initially seen as beautiful and peaceful, natures sudden shift to something vast and threatening reveals its overwhelming power that transforms the speakers perception

Key method: personification (of nature) Structural device: single stanza (emphasises how quickly nature can transform [unexpected Volta])

Symbolises the overwhelming and intimidating power of nature. The repetition of 'huge' emphasises the speaker's awe and fear, reflecting the Romantic theme of nature's dominance over humanity.

Oxymoron that conveys the speaker's conflicting emotions. It reflects the tension between the joy of exploration and the fear of nature's power, a key theme in the poem.

The simile 'like a swan' suggests grace and elegance, contrasting with 'heaving,' which implies effort and struggle. This juxtaposition reflects the tension between the beauty of nature and the speaker's physical exertion, highlighting the power and complexity of the natural world.