She Walks in Beauty Flashcards
Context
Originally intended to be a set of music.
Lord Byron was a popular English poet - known for his lavish lifestyle and scandalous affairs.
Form
ABABAB rhyme scheme: Reflects how she is a balance of different qualities
Enjambment: The narrator is overwhelmed by the woman’s beauty
Reflects the enduring nature of the woman’s beauty
Structure
Three stanzas of equal length: Indicates he thinks her personality is the most beautiful
As the poem progresses, it focuses more on her inner beauty rather than her physical appearance
Summary of poem
The narrator describes a woman he has seen, taking in her individual features in turn
He suggests her appearance reflects her personality
Mood
Admiration - he is amazed by her
Attentiveness - thinks about her physical appearance and personality
Romantic, calm, soft tone
emphasises the woman’s perfection - praises each part of her
Language
Light and dark imagery - purity of the night sky reflects her beauty
Antithesis: Contrasting ideas are reinforced by repeated structure
‘One shade more, one ray less’: Suggests any slight change would reduce her beauty
Key Quotes
Like the night of cloudless climes and starry skies
- Simile: Compares her beauty to a clear night sky
- Alliteration: Emphasizes elegance
- Light and dark contrast: Mystery and purity
A heart whose love is innocent!
- The goodness of her heart
- Exclamation mark: Shows excitement
- Her love is virtuous and pure
Where thoughts serenely sweet express
- Sibilance: Creates a soothing sound, emphasizing her soft and elegant presence
- Angelic imagery.
