poetry - ozymandias

Question 1

“Sneer of cold command” - what does this quote show (technique and meaning)

Answer 1

Alliteration of the hard ‘c’ sound contributes to the speaker’s distaste towards Ozymandias.
“Shattered visage”

Question 2

“Shattered visage” - what does this quote show (technique and meaning)

Answer 2

This metaphor describes the statue. The ruined statue is a metaphor for political power.

Question 3

“Nothing besides remains. Round the decay…” “colossal” “wreck” - what does this quote show (technique and meaning)

Answer 3

The juxtaposition of “colossal” and “wreck” emphasises the contrast between his former power and his current state. The caesura (break in the line) after “remains” highlights how Ozymandias’ power has come to an end.

Question 4

“Vast and trunkless legs of stone” - what does this quote show (technique and meaning)

Answer 4

This metaphor describes the statue. The ruined statue is a metaphor for political power.

Question 5

“Half sunk” - what does this quote show (technique and meaning)

Answer 5

This metaphor describes the statue. The ruined statue is a metaphor for political power.

Question 6

“My name is Ozymandias, king of kings…’ - what is the meaning of this quote (technique and meaning)

Answer 6

The repetition of “king of kings” shows how Ozymandias wished to portray himself as all omnipotent (all powerful)