Charge of the Light Brigade - tennyson

Question 1

What is the significance of the opening line ‘Half a league..

Answer 1

, half a league, half a league onward’?
It sets the pace and rhythm of the poem, emphasizing the relentless advance of the brigade.

This line captures the determination and continuous movement of the soldiers.

Question 2

What does the line ‘Theirs not to make reply,

Answer 2

theirs not to reason why, theirs but to do and die’ convey about the soldiers’ mindset?
It reflects the duty and obedience of the soldiers, highlighting the idea of following orders without question.

This emphasizes the theme of unquestioning loyalty in the face of danger.

Question 3

What imagery is created by the line ‘Cannon to right of

Answer 3

them, cannon to left of them, cannon in front of them’?

It illustrates the overwhelming odds the soldiers faced, creating a powerful image of the battlefield.

This line emphasizes the perilous situation and the intensity of the conflict.

Question 4

What does the phrase ‘Into the valley

Answer 4

of Death rode the six hundred’ signify?
It underscores the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers as they charge into a deadly situation.

This phrase evokes a sense of heroism associated with their fateful charge.

Question 5

What is implied by the line ‘All the w..

Answer 5

orld wondered’?
It suggests the global recognition of the bravery displayed by the Light Brigade.

This line reflects on the impact of their charge, indicating that their actions resonated far beyond the battlefield.

Question 6

Who wrote this and when?

Answer 6

Alfred Lord Tennyson - 1854