Baudelaire, Le cygne

Question 1

What are the main themes discussed in Baudelaire’s “Le cygne”?

Answer 1

The themes include modernity, the city, and progress.

Question 2

Can you provide a brief summary of Baudelaire’s “Le cygne”?

Answer 2

“Le cygne” is a poem expressing Baudelaire’s lamentations about the changes in the city of Paris and the passage of time, utilizing images of Andromache, a swan, and a female slave.

Question 3

What were the characteristics of Paris during the Second Empire, as described by Baudelaire?

Answer 3

Paris during the Second Empire was marked by the rule of Napoleon III, population growth, industrial and commercial expansion, and the renovation of Paris by Baron Haussmann.

Question 4

How does Baudelaire express his feelings about the changes in Paris in “Le cygne”?

Answer 4

Baudelaire uses hyperbolic melancholy to convey his sentiments. He views all modifications of the city as negative and expresses a theme of being exiled from his hometown.

Question 5

What artistic movement influenced Baudelaire’s perspective on the city in “Le cygne”?

Answer 5

Baudelaire’s perspective, characterized by hyperbolic melancholy and a negative view of urban changes, is influenced by the romantic movement.