Understanding the Poem 'London'
I can explain how Blake presents power in society in 18th century London.
Understanding the Poem 'London'
I can explain how Blake presents power in society in 18th century London.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Blake explores the tensions between the human passions and the repressive nature of social and political conventions
- ‘Songs of Innocence and Experience’ investigates how society corrupts innocence
- Blake was critical of social inequality created by institutions: the Church, Government, the monarchy
- Across ‘Songs of Innocence and Experience’ he highlights the effect of the inaction of callous leaders on the vulnerable
- Blake was a radical, inspired by Rousseau and the French Revolution, to warn about the restrictions on freedom
Common misconception
Pupils might first read the poem as entirely literal. e.g. "black'ning church" refers to pollution of the industrial revolution.
Several ideas are metaphorical or symbolic in the poem. E.g. Blake refers to the corruption of the church (the church is also symbolic of religion as a whole).
Keywords
Oppression - when people are governed in an unfair, cruel way
Corruption - illegal, immoral behaviour by those in power
Complicit - involved in immoral activity
Chartered - land that was once held in common but is now privately owned and controlled
Manacles - another word for handcuffs; used to restrain prisoners
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of upsetting content
- Depiction or discussion of sexual content
Supervision
Adult supervision required
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).
Video
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