Understanding how Shelley critiques powerful institutions in 'England in 1819'
I can explain how Shelley presents powerful institutions through a consideration of the language and Romantic context.
Understanding how Shelley critiques powerful institutions in 'England in 1819'
I can explain how Shelley presents powerful institutions through a consideration of the language and Romantic context.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- ‘England in 1819’ is arguably a criticism of powerful institutions who are blind to the suffering of ordinary folk.
- The Peterloo Massacre happened in England in 1819.
- The Peterloo Massacre happened at a protest demanding the reform of parliamentary representation.
- Arguably, Shelley criticises the monarchy, the Church and parliament for not acting in the people’s best interests.
Keywords
Institution - an established organisation or corporation (such as a bank or university) often for use by the public
Monarchy - the system of having a king or queen
Critical - expressing adverse or disapproving comments or judgements
Romanticism - a poetic movement from the late 18th and early 19th century, focused on emotions and nature
Common misconception
That Romantic poets were purely concerned with nature.
While nature is a prominent theme of many Romantic poems, Romantics were also social revolutionaries who criticised institutions such as the monarchy and the Church.
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Understanding how Shelley critiques powerful institutions in 'England in 1819', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Understanding how Shelley critiques powerful institutions in 'England in 1819', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Equipment
You will need access to a copy of the AQA World and Lives anthology for this lesson.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended