Ozymandias - Percy Bysshe Shelley Flashcards

1
Q

What themes does Ozymandias explore?

A
  • Power of Humans.
  • Power of Nature.
  • Negative emotions - pride.
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2
Q

Who was Percy Bysshe Shelley?

A

He was a romantic poet, who only really became famous after his death. He wrote Ozymandias in 1817, after hearing about how an Italian explorer had retrieved the statue from the desert.

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3
Q

What is some context for Ozymandias?

A

Shelley was a ‘Romantic’ poet - ‘Romanticism’ was a movement that had a big influence on art and literature in the late 170Os and early 180Os. ‘Romantic’ poets believed in emotion rather than reason, tried to capture intense experiences in their work and particularly focused on the power of nature. Shelley also disliked monarchies, absolute power and the oppression of ordinary people.
His radical political views were inspired by the events of the French Revolution, where the monarchy was overthrown.

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4
Q

What does Ozymandias mean?

A

It is another name for Ramesses IIm a ruler of Ancient Egypt.

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5
Q

What is Ozymandias about?

A

1) The narrator meets a traveller who tells him about a statue standing in the middle of the desert.
2) It is a statue of a king who ruled over a past civilisation. His face is proud and he arrogantly boasts about how powerful he is in an inscription on the statue’s base.
3) However, the statue has fallen down and crumbled away, so that only ruins remain.

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6
Q

What is the form followed in Ozymandias?

A

The poem is a sonnet, with a turning point (volta) at line 9 like a Petrarchan sonnet. However, it doesn’t follow a regular sonnet rhyme scheme, perhaps reflecting the way that human power and structures can be destroyed. It uses iambic pentameter, but this is also often disrupted. The story is a second-hand account, which distances the reader even further from the dead king.

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7
Q

What is the structure followed in ozymandias?

A

The narrator builds up an image of the statue by focusing on different parts of it in turn. The poem ends by describing the enormous desert, which helps to sum up the insignificance of the statue.

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8
Q

What is the irony used in Ozymandias?

A

There’s nothing left to show for the ruler’s arrogant boasting or his great civilisation. The ruined statue can be seen as a symbol for the temporary nature of political power or human achievement. Shelley’s use of irony reflects his hatred of oppression and his belief that it is possible to overturn social and political order.

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9
Q

What is the language of power used in ozymandias?

A

The poem focuses on the power of Ozymandias, representing human power. However his power has been lost and is only visible due to the power of art. Ultimately, nature has ruined the statue, showing that nature and time has more power than anything else.

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10
Q

What is the angry language used in ozymandias?

A

The tyranny of the ruler is suggested through aggressive language.

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11
Q

What are the symbols used in Ozymandias?

A
  • Sand.
  • The statue.
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12
Q

Why did the poem Ozymandias use the symbol of sand?

A

In the poem, sand is a symbol of nature’s power and also of time itself. The sand has eroded and buried the statue and all of Ozymandias’s works, a reminder that nature can destroy all human achievements, no matter how substantial. Because it destroyed the statue over time, and because of the idea of sand in an hourglass, sand also represents time itself, which has similarly worn down and eventually buried Ozymandias’s empire.

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13
Q

Why did the poem Ozymandias use the symbol of the statue?

A

First, it is a physical representation of the might of human political institutions, such as Ozymandias’s empire; this is the symbolic purpose for which Ozymandias himself had the statue built. However, because the statue has fallen into disrepair, it also holds a symbolic meaning that Ozymandias didn’t intend: it represents how comparatively fragile human political institutions actually are in the face of both time and nature’s might.

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14
Q

Why did the poem Ozymandias use the symbol of the statue, in relation to art?

A

The statue also symbolizes the power of art. Through the sculptor’s skill, the statue captures and preserves the “passions” of its subject by stamping them on “lifeless” rock. And the statue also symbolizes the way that art can have power beyond the intentions of even those who commission it. While Ozymandias saw the statue as a way to forever capture his power and magnificence, the poem hints that the statue so thoroughly reveals Ozymandias’s haughty cruelty that it also serves to mock him. While Ozymandias’s great works have been destroyed and disappeared by nature and time, art in the form of the stature endures, keeping Ozymandias’s memory alive (albeit not in entirely the ways he would have wanted).

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15
Q

Why did the poem Ozymandias use the symbol of the statue, in relation to being worn down?

A

It is also possible to interpret the statue in a third way. Because Ozymandias is clearly a tyrant, the fact that the statue has become a “wreck” hints that the statue might symbolically represent the speaker of the poem’s hope and belief that tyranny will always crumble, which also happened to be one of Shelley’s own personal political passions.

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16
Q

What are the feelings in this poem?

A
  • Pride.
  • Arrogance.
  • Power.
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17
Q

Why is pride explored in this poem?

A

The ruler was proud of what he’d achieved. He called on other rulers to admire what he did.

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18
Q

Why is arrogance explored in this poem?

A

The inscription shows that the rule believed that he was the most powerful ruler in the land - nobody else could compete with him. He also thought he was better than those he ruled.

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19
Q

Why is power explored in this poem?

A

Human civilisations and achievements are insignificant compared to the passing of time. Art has the power to preserve elements of human existence, but is also only temporary.

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20
Q

What is 1 quote that shows the power of humans?

A

“My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings;”

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21
Q

What is the device used in this quote?

A

Allusion.

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22
Q

Why has the writer used allusion?

A

The use of “King of Kings” is an allusion to a title often associated with powerful rulers, emphasizing Ozymandias’s claim to supreme authority.

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23
Q

What is some analysis of this quote?

A

This line introduces Ozymandias as a powerful ruler with the grandiose title “King of Kings.” The repetition of the title emphasizes his claim to ultimate authority. The use of a semi-colon creates a sense of formality, adding to the regal tone. This quote establishes Ozymandias’s pride and sets the stage for the exploration of his character and legacy.

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24
Q

What is some context for this quote?

A

In the early 19th century, the world witnessed the rise and fall of powerful empires, including Napoleon’s conquests and subsequent defeats. The title “King of Kings” echoes the grandeur often associated with authoritarian rulers of the time, like Napoleon, who sought to dominate vast territories. Shelley, a Romantic poet, might have been influenced by the political upheavals and the dangers of unchecked power, cautioning against the arrogance of rulers.

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25
Q

What is quote 2 that shows the power of humans?

A

'’Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!”

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26
Q

What is the device used in this quote?

A

Direct address and irony.

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27
Q

Why has the writer used direct address and irony?

A

The address to the “Mighty” is an apostrophe, as Ozymandias is speaking directly to other powerful rulers. The irony lies in the fact that, instead of finding great works to admire, the onlookers would find nothing but ruins, highlighting the transience of human achievements.

28
Q

What is some analysis of this quote?

A

Ozymandias’s command for the mighty to look upon his works reveals his arrogance and overconfidence in the endurance of his achievements. The use of an exclamation mark and the imperative “Look” intensify the command, underscoring Ozymandias’s belief in the everlasting nature of his power. The irony lies in the contrast between his boast and the actual state of his ruined empire, contributing to the poem’s theme of the transient nature of human glory.

29
Q

What is some context for this quote?

A

The Industrial Revolution was transforming societies with rapid technological advancements, leading to the rise of industrial magnates and imperial powers. Ozymandias’s boastful call to “ye Mighty” reflects the hubris often seen in those who amassed great wealth and influence during this era. The poem could be seen as a critique of the societal values emphasizing material achievements and the potential downfall of those who believed their works were invincible.

30
Q

What is quote 3 that shows the power of humans?

A

“The lone and level sands stretch far away.”

31
Q

What is the device used in this quote?

A

Alliteration and symbolism.

32
Q

Why has the writer used alliteration and symbolism?

A

The repetition of the “l” sound in “lone and level” is an example of alliteration. The “lone and level sands” symbolize the vast, empty desert and the relentless passage of time, emphasizing the impermanence of human endeavors.

33
Q

What is some analysis of this quote?

A

This concluding line encapsulates the poem’s central theme. The alliteration in “lone and level” creates a rhythmic and melancholic tone, emphasizing the desolation of the vast desert. The symbolism of “sands” represents time and the relentless erosion of human achievements. The phrase “far away” suggests an endless expanse, highlighting the inexorable passage of time and the ultimate obscurity of Ozymandias’s once-mighty civilization.

34
Q

What is some context for this quote?

A

Exploration and colonization were defining aspects of the 19th century. The idea of vast, desolate sands stretching far away might symbolize the unknown territories being explored and exploited by colonial powers. The decline of Ozymandias’s empire mirrors the potential consequences of overreaching and the inevitable erosion of empires over time. The imagery could resonate with the Romantic critique of the impact of colonization on both the colonized and the colonizers.

35
Q

What are the quotes that show the power of humans?

A

1) ‘My name is Ozymandias, King of King’s’
2) ‘Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair’
3) ‘The lone and level sands stretch far away’

36
Q

What is 1 quote that shows the power of nature?

A

“And on the pedestal, these words appear: / My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings;”

37
Q

What is the device used in this quote?

A

Irony.

38
Q

Why is irony used?

A

The irony lies in the contrast between the initial intention of permanence and the actual state of the pedestal being partially buried in the sand. This contrast underscores the transient nature of human achievements when confronted with the relentless power of nature.

39
Q

What is some analysis for this quote?

A

The irony in this line is profound. Ozymandias, declaring himself “King of Kings,” intended his words to endure on the pedestal. However, the current state of the pedestal buried in the sand suggests the transience of human achievements. The irony highlights the contrast between Ozymandias’s pride and the inevitable decay wrought by nature. This sets the stage for the overarching theme of the poem: the fleeting nature of human power.

40
Q

What is some context for this quote?

A

This quote resonates with the historical context of ambitious rulers during the 19th century, a period marked by imperial expansion and the rise of powerful leaders. Ozymandias’s proclamation as “King of Kings” might draw parallels to the grand titles assumed by rulers like Napoleon Bonaparte, who sought to establish vast empires. The irony in the quote reflects the unpredictability of the outcomes of such aspirations, considering how Napoleon’s empire, too, eventually crumbled.

41
Q

What is quote 2 that shows the power of nature?

A

'’The lone and level sands whisper their tales.’’

42
Q

What is the device used in this quote?

A

Personification and Metaphor

43
Q

Why has the writer used personification and metaphors?

A

Personification is used when describing the sands as “whisper[ing] their tales,” giving the impression that nature itself possesses the ability to communicate or hold stories. Additionally, the metaphorical use of “whisper” suggests a subtle, ongoing narration by the sands, reinforcing the idea that nature has a voice and a narrative to share.

44
Q

What is some analysis of this quote?

A

The use of personification in “sands whisper their tales” imbues nature with a mysterious, storytelling quality. This metaphorical language suggests that the landscape itself holds the stories of past civilizations. By employing personification, Shelley not only emphasizes the power of nature but also gives it a voice, suggesting that the sands bear witness to the rise and fall of human empires. This adds a layer of depth to the poem, emphasizing the cyclical nature of history.

45
Q

What is some context of this quote?

A

This line connects to the cultural fascination with ancient civilizations and archaeology during the 19th century. The discovery of ancient ruins, such as those in Egypt, fueled a romanticized view of the past. The sands “whispering their tales” reflects the interest in deciphering the stories of bygone civilizations buried beneath layers of time and sand. Archaeological endeavors in Shelley’s time inspired a sense of mystery and wonder about the narratives held within ancient landscapes.

46
Q

What is quote 3 that shows the power of nature?

A

'’Nothing beside remains. Round the decay / Of that colossal Wreck, boundless and bare,’’

47
Q

What is the device used in this quote?

A

Symbolism and alliteration

48
Q

Why has the writer used symbolism and alliteration?

A

The use of “colossal Wreck” is symbolic, representing the ruins of Ozymandias’s empire. The alliteration in “boundless and bare” creates a rhythmic and resonant quality, emphasizing the vastness and emptiness of the landscape. The combination of symbolism and alliteration enhances the portrayal of nature’s power in reducing human achievements to desolate remnants.

49
Q

What is some analysis of this quote?

A

The use of personification in “sands whisper their tales” imbues nature with a mysterious, storytelling quality. This metaphorical language suggests that the landscape itself holds the stories of past civilizations. By employing personification, Shelley not only emphasizes the power of nature but also gives it a voice, suggesting that the sands bear witness to the rise and fall of human empires. This adds a layer of depth to the poem, emphasizing the cyclical nature of history.

50
Q

What is some context of this quote?

A

The description of “colossal Wreck” ties into the Romantic fascination with the sublime and the awe-inspiring. The 19th century witnessed both the splendor of industrial progress and the destructive forces of nature, including volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. The use of “colossal Wreck” might resonate with the aftermath of natural disasters, where once-thriving cities were reduced to ruins. This aligns with the Romantic interest in the power of nature to humble and awe humanity.

51
Q

What is 1 quote that shows pride?

A

“Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!”

52
Q

What is the device used in this quote?

A

Imperatives and irony.

53
Q

Why has the writer used imperatives and irony?

A

The use of “Look” is an imperative, creating a commanding tone. Ozymandias is not suggesting but demanding that others witness and acknowledge the greatness of his works. This line is ironic as it contrasts Ozymandias’s proud proclamation with the reality revealed later in the poem – the ruins and desolation that stand in stark contrast to his initial boast.

54
Q

What is analysis of this quote?

A

This line is a powerful declaration of Ozymandias’s pride and confidence in the enduring greatness of his achievements. The use of the imperative “Look” commands attention and signifies his expectation of admiration from those he addresses as the “Mighty.” However, the irony lies in the fact that, by the end of the poem, what remains is a desolate landscape, challenging the initial boast and revealing the transience of human accomplishments.

55
Q

What is some context that links to this quote?

A

The early 19th century, when Shelley wrote “Ozymandias,” was marked by the aftermath of the French Revolution and the rise and fall of powerful empires. The quote reflects the sentiment of certain rulers during this period, like Napoleon Bonaparte, who sought to leave a lasting imprint through military conquests and grand architectural projects. The pride expressed by Ozymandias could be seen as a reflection of the hubris of powerful leaders of the time.

56
Q

What is quote 2 that shows pride?

A

'’King of Kings’’

57
Q

What is the device used in this quote?

A

Repetition and hyperbole.

58
Q

Why has the writer used repetition and hyperbole?

A

The repetition of “King of Kings” emphasizes the grandiosity of Ozymandias’s title, highlighting his claim to the highest authority among rulers. The title itself can be seen as a hyperbole, an exaggerated claim that underscores Ozymandias’s excessive pride and sense of supremacy.

59
Q

What is analysis of this quote?

A

The repetition of the title “King of Kings” establishes Ozymandias’s claim to the highest authority and supremacy. This grandiose title reflects not only his pride but also his desire to assert dominance over other rulers. The hyperbolic nature of the title adds to the portrayal of Ozymandias’s excessive pride, setting the stage for the eventual downfall of his empire.

60
Q

What is some context that links to this quote?

A

The phrase “King of Kings” has historical and biblical connotations, often associated with supreme rulers or divine authority. In the context of the early 19th century, this title may evoke images of powerful monarchs who sought to consolidate their rule over vast territories. Additionally, the Romantic era saw a fascination with the exotic and the ancient, with explorations of ancient cultures and civilizations, influencing the portrayal of rulers like Ozymandias.

61
Q

What is quote 3 that shows pride?

A

“My name is Ozymandias”

62
Q

What is the device used in this quote?

A

First person and declarative sentence.

63
Q

Why has the writer used first person and a declarative sentence?

A

Ozymandias’s use of the first person (“My name is”) establishes a direct and personal connection, emphasizing his individual pride and desire for recognition. The straightforward declaration adds to the tone of assertion, emphasizing Ozymandias’s confidence in the enduring legacy of his name.

64
Q

What is analysis of this quote?

A

Ozymandias’s direct declaration of his name reflects an assertion of individual identity and a desire for lasting recognition. The use of the first person adds a personal touch to his pride, as if he believes that his name alone carries enough weight to be remembered throughout time. However, the irony lies in the fact that the very act of declaring his name becomes a testament to the poem’s theme of the inevitable decay of human accomplishments.

65
Q

What is some context that links to this quote?

A

The act of declaring one’s name with such grandiosity aligns with the Romantic emphasis on individualism and the celebration of the self. The Romantic poets often explored the complexities of human nature and the individual’s place in a changing world. Ozymandias’s desire for his name to be remembered reflects the Romantic fascination with the enduring impact of individual actions and legacies.