Scottish Text - Assissi Flashcards
What is the poem ‘Assisi’ about?
A visit to a big church built for St Francis, who cared about poor people. The poem shows how the church now ignores the poor.
Who was St Francis of Assisi?
A kind priest who gave up riches to help the poor and loved animals.
What does the beggar look like in stanza one?
He’s badly disabled, like a sack with stuffing. His legs and hands are twisted.
What is the tone towards the beggar?
Sad and full of pity, but also a bit angry that people ignore him.
What is ironic about the basilica?
It’s a fancy, expensive church for a man who lived simply and helped the poor.
What is the mood in stanza two?
It changes to anger at the priest, who talks about paintings but ignores the real suffering outside.
What does the priest care about?
The art and how clever the artist is – not about helping people.
Why is the priest being hypocritical?
He talks about God’s goodness but ignores the suffering man outside.
What is the mood in stanza three?
The poet feels annoyed with the tourists who follow the priest and don’t care about the beggar.
How are the tourists described?
Like chickens following the priest – not thinking for themselves.
What does ‘ruined temple’ mean?
The beggar is compared to a broken church – once special, now ignored.
How is the beggar’s voice described?
Sweet like a child’s voice talking to their mum. It shows his kindness.
What does the beggar say at the end?
He says ‘thank you’ – showing he’s grateful despite his terrible life.
What are the main themes?
Suffering, poverty, and how the Church sometimes forgets to help those in need.
Why is the ending powerful?
Even though he’s in pain, the beggar is kind. It makes us question who is really good.
