ELEGY 5: HIS PICTURE (Form, structure, context)

Question 1

Can you describe the form of the poem?

Answer 1

1. A structurally ironic epitaph
2. Elegy in the Ovidian style
3. Heroic couplets consisting of iambic pentameter

Question 2

A structurally ironic epitaph?

Answer 2

• Donne is still alive, but already memorialises himself.

Question 3

Elegy in the Ovidian Style?

Answer 3

• Contemplation of whether love can survive the ravages of time (common theme in Roman love elegies)
• Ovidian styles are playful, ironic and witty.

Question 4

Heroic couplets consisting of iambic pentameter?

Answer 4

• Suitable choice for reflective/ philosophical mediation on identity, time and love.
• Mirrors logical progression of thought.

Question 5

Can you describe the structure of the poem?

Answer 5

• End-stopped
• Enjambent

Question 6

What are the 4 main themes in the poem?

Answer 6

1. Representation and substitution (art’s limitations)
2. Irreconcilable past and future.
3. Superficial vs neo-platonic love.
4. Mortality and human fragility.