The Question - Shelley Flashcards

1
Q

When was The Question written?

A

1819/1820

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2
Q

What does Shelley explicitly reference in the opening and closing lines of stanza 1?

A

Dreams suggesting a other-worldly tone

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3
Q

Compare the presentation of reality in The Question and one other poem

A

Wordsworth - reality of nature

Blake’s Holy Thursday (Experience)/London

Keats - negative capability

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4
Q

When is the meaning of the title The Question revealed?

A

At the very end

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5
Q

Why is the meaning of the title The Question revealed at the very end?

A

Creates suspense for the reader who initially reads the poem with a meaningless title

On the second reading, the title reminds the reader of the reality that haunts the poem

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6
Q

Summary of The Question

A

Tells of a dream in which a speaker encountered a vast forest of pristine, blooming flowers

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7
Q

Possible inspiration for The Question?

A

Shelley’s later years were especially tragic
- crafts the dream as a kind of retreat
- BUT first person narrator is not necessarily Shelley himself

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8
Q

What is the structure of The Question?

A

5 stanzas of octaves

Structured rhyme scheme with alternating end sounds
- ABABABCC

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9
Q

What is the significance of using iambic pentameter in The Question?

A

Very consistent pace

Somewhat meditative and peaceful

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10
Q

What might The Question be dedicated to?

A

New love interest for Jane Williams

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11
Q

Themes in The Question

A

Poetry and Artistic Inspiration

Beauty and Power of the Imagination

Artistry and Audience

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