Corruption and Oppression Flashcards
overview
In William Blake’s poem London, he explores the theme of corruption and oppression in the city, highlighting the suffering of individuals under a corrupt system. Through vivid imagery, powerful language, and symbolic references, Blake paints a grim picture of a society plagued by inequality, exploitation, and despair. The poem critiques not only the political and religious systems but also the societal norms that contribute to this oppression
“Marks of weakness, marks of woe”
“Marks of weakness, marks of woe”
Blake begins with an image of the people he encounters in London, describing their faces as bearing “marks of weakness, marks of woe.” This phrase suggests that the people are physically and emotionally scarred by the oppressive society they live in. The repetition of “marks” emphasizes the visible signs of suffering, indicating that this pain is pervasive and unavoidable. The tone here is one of sorrow and despair, highlighting the emotional and physical toll of corruption on the individual. It creates a sense of helplessness, showing how the system has worn down the people.
“The mind-forg’d manacles I hear”
“The mind-forg’d manacles I hear”
In this line, Blake uses the metaphor of “mind-forg’d manacles” to suggest that the oppression people face is not just physical but mental. The “manacles” or shackles represent the mental chains that limit people’s freedom and agency. The phrase “I hear” implies that these chains are not visible but are felt in the thoughts and voices of the people. The tone is bleak, and Blake uses this image to argue that societal oppression is so ingrained that it controls not only people’s actions but their thoughts, making it even more dangerous and pervasive.
“How the Chimney-sweepers cry”
“How the Chimney-sweepers cry”
Blake brings attention to the plight of the chimney-sweepers, who were often young children forced into dangerous labor. Their “cry” represents the suffering of the poor and the exploitation of the vulnerable. The tone here is one of sympathy, emphasizing the cruelty of using children for such harsh work. This line highlights the corruption within society, where the most innocent and powerless are abused for profit. It also serves as a critique of the lack of compassion within the political and social systems.
“Every blackning Church appalls”
“Every blackning Church appalls”
In this line, Blake criticizes the Church for its complicity in the suffering of the poor. The word “blackning” suggests that the Church, once a place of purity, is now tainted by its association with corruption and injustice. The verb “appalls” indicates the disgust Blake feels, and the tone here is one of outrage. This line critiques the Church for not doing enough to address the oppression of the poor, showing how institutions that are supposed to offer help instead contribute to the corruption.
“Runs in blood down Palace walls”
“Runs in blood down Palace walls”
Blake uses the image of blood running down the Palace walls to symbolize the violent consequences of corruption. The Palace represents the ruling elite, and the blood represents the suffering and sacrifice of the oppressed. The tone is accusatory, highlighting the direct link between the power held by the monarchy and the bloodshed caused by their policies. This line underscores the theme of corruption, showing how those in power are responsible for the misery of the masses.
“And blights with plagues the Marriage hearse”
“And blights with plagues the Marriage hearse”
The final line of the poem juxtaposes the ideas of “Marriage” and “hearse,” two symbols traditionally associated with love and death, respectively. By linking them, Blake suggests that the institution of marriage is corrupted and that it ultimately leads to death and destruction. The “plagues” represent the spread of corruption, which affects all aspects of life, even the most sacred. The tone here is grim and pessimistic, reinforcing the idea that in a corrupt society, even love and family are tainted by oppression.
structure
Blake’s use of a regular ABAB rhyme scheme gives the poem a rhythmic, almost chant-like quality. This consistent structure could symbolize the unyielding, repetitive nature of oppression in society. The poem’s four quatrains create a sense of progression, building from the general suffering of the people to the more specific and personal injustices they face. The regularity of the form contrasts with the chaotic and oppressive content of the poem, perhaps emphasizing how the systems of corruption continue to function without change. Additionally, the poem’s use of enjambment, where sentences flow over from one line to the next, creates a feeling of urgency and continuity, suggesting that the cycle of oppression is ongoing and inescapable.
context
Blake wrote London during the Industrial Revolution, a time of social and political upheaval in England. The rise of industrial capitalism led to increased poverty, exploitation, and inequality, particularly in urban areas like London. Blake, a poet and artist with strong social and political views, was highly critical of the institutions that perpetuated these problems, including the monarchy, the Church, and the government. In London, he condemns these institutions for their role in creating a corrupt society where the poor are oppressed and exploited. The context of the poem is essential to understanding the message of corruption and oppression, as it reflects Blake’s disillusionment with the social order of his time.
conclusion
In London, William Blake uses vivid imagery, metaphors, and a strong, consistent tone to critique the corruption and oppression that permeate society. By highlighting the suffering of the poor, the exploitation of children, and the failure of institutions like the Church and monarchy, Blake paints a bleak picture of a society where corruption is all-encompassing. The structure of the poem, with its regular rhyme scheme and use of enjambment, reinforces the sense of an unrelenting cycle of oppression. Through this powerful critique, Blake urges readers to recognize and address the corruption that stifles human potential and condemns them to a life of suffering.
