Ozymandias Quotes & Themes

Question 1

This quote shows Ozymandias’ arrogance and belief in his eternal power.
(POWER & HUBRIS)

Answer 1

“My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings: Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!”
(POWER & HUBRIS)

Question 2

This quote suggests the sculptor captured the ruler’s arrogance. It also highlights the ruler’s cruelty and self-importance.
(POWER & HUBRIS)

Answer 2

“The hand that mocked them and the heart that fed.” (Power & HUBRIS)

Question 3

This quote shows that despite his grand claims, all that’s left is ruins, emphasizing the impermanence of human achievements.

Answer 3

“Nothing beside remains.”
(TRANSIENCE OF POWER)

Question 4

This quote shows that the vast, empty desert contrasts with Ozymandias’ lost empire, reinforcing how nature outlasts human power.

Answer 4

“Round the decay of that colossal Wreck, boundless and bare, the lone and level sands stretch far away.”
(TRANSIENCE OF POWER)

Question 5

This quote shows how nature has eroded the statue, symbolizing how time and the natural world overpower human creations.

Answer 5

“Half sunk, a shattered visage lies.”
(NATURE vs HUMAN CIVILISATION)

Question 6

This quote shows how nature remains eternal and unaffected by human ambition, showing the insignificance of mankind.
(NATURE vs HUMAN CIVILISATION)

Answer 6

“The lone and level sands stretch far away.”
(NATURE vs HUMAN CIVILISATION)

Question 7

This quote shows how the sculptor’s work outlives the ruler’s empire, suggesting art has the power to preserve history even when civilizations fade.
(ART as a PRESERVER of HISTORY)

Answer 7

“Which yet survive, stamped on these lifeless things.”
(ART as a PRESERVER of HISTORY)