Analysing the poem 'Extract from The Prelude'
I can analyse the big ideas in ‘Extract from The Prelude’.
Analysing the poem 'Extract from The Prelude'
I can analyse the big ideas in ‘Extract from The Prelude’.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Initially, Wordsworth presents himself as a hero, later nature is presented as an extraordinary presence.
- Imagery of man’s arrogant efforts to dominate nature are repeated across the poem, warning of his inferiority to nature.
- Pretty aural and visual imagery early in the poem contrasts with cacophony after the volta.
- The monosyllabic description of the mountain shows how nature transcends the world of man.
- The poem explores both power and conflict: man's conflict with himself after learning the true power of nature.
Keywords
Epic Poetry - a long poem narrating the deeds of legendary or heroic figures
Cacophony - a harsh discordant mixture of sounds
Volta - sudden shift in emotion
Awe - a feeling of reverential respect mixed with fear or wonder
Monosyllabic - consisting of one syllable
Common misconception
The use of the epic form is just to show Wordsworth's adventure.
The use of epic form may suggest how nature is a heroic or legendary presence worthy of the epic poem form.
Equipment
You will need access to a copy of the AQA Power and Conflict Anthology for this lesson.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
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
Loading...