Textual Analysis - Assisi Flashcards
What dehumanising language is used to describe the beggar?
“Like a half - filled sack” suggests he can not support himself due to disability, misshapen.
“Tiny twisted” alliteration highlights useless, dysfunctional, weak legs.
What language shows a contrast between the beggar and the priest?
“Brother of the poor…” - (list) St Francis saw himself as equal to those less fortunate, friendship, humble.
“Honour” - Respect and noteworthy. St Francis is a prime example of a good Christian.
“Cleverness” suggests the priest thinks he is better than others, superior, intelligent. St Francis believed in equality. The poet is not convinced.
“Suffering” - (ironic) over-used, cliche word. Lost its meaning. Priest ignores real suffering outside but “cares” about the suffering of Jesus. Hypocrisy.
Last paragraph language
“Ruined temple” - Metaphor - “Ruined” suggests he is in a state of disrepair and bad condition. “Temple” links to his inner beauty. He is precious, valuable, sacred, and important.
“Wept pus” suggests infection, pain, and disease. Grotesque description.
“As sweet as a child’s” - simile - contrasts with outer, unpleasant appearance, innocence, beauty.
