The Sick Rose - Blake Flashcards
What are possible inspirations for The Sick Rose?
Festivals of Rose in Normandy France
Industrial change in England (1760-1830)
Prostitution in the 18th century
The Church’s power over society in the 18th century
Why are the festivals of Rose in Normandy France considered an inspiration for The Sick Rose?
Written in the same year the festival was banned
The festival embodied how Blake envisioned the ideal state of existence
People should be governed by the rule of war not by the edicts of aristocrats whim
Why would England undergoing huge industrial change (1760-1830) be considered an inspiration for The Sick Rose?
Hand production methods of farming and industry replaced by machines
Social commentators of the time were worried that revolution would destroy traditions and ruin green fields of land
Why is prostitution in the 18th century considered an inspiration for The Sick Rose?
Prostitution was rife: many women were forced into the industry by others or to make a living
Led to an inevitable spread of sexually transmitted infections as well as infectious diseases spreading due to rise of unsanitary conditions in cities
Why is the Church considered an inspiration for The Sick Rose?
Citizens’ morals and ethics were questioned by religious leaders who feared losing followers to new scientific and technological advances
Church criticised that people would rather embrace their desires and pleasures than follow religious teachings, like Adam and Eve
Themes in The Sick Rose?
Mortality of beauty
Decay and destruction
Deceitful love
Hidden forces
Nature and the human connection
