Ozymandias Flashcards
Who wrote the poem ‘Ozymandias’?
Percy Shelley
What is the central theme of ‘Ozymandias’?
The inevitable decline of all leaders and empires
What does the statue of Ozymandias symbolize?
The fleeting nature of power and the ultimate insignificance of human achievements
Where is the traveler in ‘Ozymandias’ when he sees the statue?
In the desert
What inscription is on the pedestal of Ozymandias’ statue?
My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings; Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!
What does the phrase ‘Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!’ suggest?
The irony of Ozymandias’ boast, as his works have crumbled to dust
What literary device is used in the line ‘Half sunk, a shattered visage lies’?
Alliteration
What is the tone of ‘Ozymandias’?
Irony and melancholy
Who is the speaker in ‘Ozymandias’?
An unnamed traveler
What is the rhyme scheme of ‘Ozymandias’?
ABABACDC EDEFEF
What is the setting of ‘Ozymandias’?
A desolate desert landscape
What is the significance of the title ‘Ozymandias’?
It is the Greek name for Ramses II, a powerful pharaoh
What is the main message of ‘Ozymandias’?
No one can escape the ravages of time and the impermanence of human achievements
What does the broken statue in ‘Ozymandias’ represent?
The transience of power and the inevitable decline of all rulers
What does the phrase ‘boundless and bare’ describe in ‘Ozymandias’?
The vast desert landscape
What is the significance of the line ‘The lone and level sands stretch far away’?
It emphasizes the desolation and emptiness of the landscape
What is the mood of ‘Ozymandias’?
Somber and reflective
What is the structure of ‘Ozymandias’?
It is a sonnet with a Petrarchan rhyme scheme
What does the phrase ‘King of Kings’ suggest about Ozymandias?
It implies his arrogance and belief in his supreme power
What is the central irony in ‘Ozymandias’?
Despite Ozymandias’ claims of greatness, his empire has crumbled into ruin
What does the phrase ‘cold command’ suggest about Ozymandias?
It implies his distant and authoritarian rule
What is the significance of the word ‘decay’ in ‘Ozymandias’?
It highlights the inevitable decline and deterioration of all things
What lesson can be learned from ‘Ozymandias’?
The impermanence of power and the futility of seeking immortality through material possessions
What is the tone of the poem ‘Ozymandias’?
It is one of irony and contemplation
