Analysing the poem 'Bayonet Charge'
I can explore how Hughes uses language and structure to present the multi-faceted destructive impact of war.
Analysing the poem 'Bayonet Charge'
I can explore how Hughes uses language and structure to present the multi-faceted destructive impact of war.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Hughes shows the destructive nature of war through its impact on the soldier and the environment.
- In medias res and the use of a chaotic and disorientating structure shows the inherent panic of conflict.
- Hughes’ complex combination of violence, human body parts and weaponry blurs the line between the human and machine.
- Hughes subverts pastoral imagery to show that warfare destroys the environment, peace and innocence.
Keywords
Harrowing - highly distressing
Pastoral - literature conveying the idealised version of country life
Dehumanise - deprive someone of the qualities that make them human
In medias res - opening in the midst of the plot
Common misconception
Students may not initially see the natural imagery as relevant.
Explain to students that Ted Hughes was famous for his nature and animal poetry. He would have included these themes deliberately with a strong sense of purpose.
Equipment
You will need access to a copy of the AQA Power and Conflict Anthology for this lesson.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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