Dulce et Decorum Est

Question 1

First stanza?

Answer 1

About a young boy who has gained much military experience and always lives in danger
He’s a strong fighter and is able to challenge the Parthians, who are enemies of Rome

Question 2

Second stanza?

Answer 2

The enemies female relatives that the young boy fights against will fear for his life

Question 3

Third stanza?

Answer 3

The enemies wives will worry for their husbands lack of skill against the Roman boys superior talent

Question 4

Fourth stanza?

Answer 4

Sweet and fitting to die for ones country
Even if you’re a coward and run away, you’ll still die, so you might as well die gloriously

Question 5

Fifth stanza?

Answer 5

Starts talking about how to be a politician- a good politician wont change his mind at the whims of others

Question 6

Sixth stanza?

Answer 6

Talks about possibilities for a virtuous politician when they die- such as being made into a God

Question 7

Seventh stanza?

Answer 7

Highlights importance of discretion and being trustworthy

Question 8

Eighth stanza?

Answer 8

You can’t escape punishment

Question 9

What are the key ideas?

Answer 9

• Death in battle is beautiful
• Train hard (even if you’re upper class)
• There are links between war and politics
• Gods punish bad behaviour (especially indiscretion)