Understanding the poem 'The Destruction of Sennacherib' by Lord Byron
I can explain how Lord Byron depicts the destruction of the Assyrian army.
Understanding the poem 'The Destruction of Sennacherib' by Lord Byron
I can explain how Lord Byron depicts the destruction of the Assyrian army.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- The poem is based on a biblical depiction of how King Sennacherib and the Assyrian army attempted to invade Jerusalem.
- The Assyrian king was defeated by a divine intervention from God.
- War was a significant concern in Europe at the time Lord Byron wrote the poem.
- Poems which saw God intervene to help the 'good' forces during war were popular during this era.
Keywords
Destruction - causing severe damage or ruining something completely
Divine intervention - direct involvement of a deity in human affairs, often in response to prayer
Jerusalem - historic city significant to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, located in the Middle East
Morale - mental and emotional state of a group or society, reflecting confidence, enthusiasm and determination
Righteous - morally upright or virtuous; acting in accordance with principles of justice and goodness
Common misconception
Byron based this poem on a religious conflict which occurred during his lifetime.
This poem describes a conflict which was described in the Bible, when King Sennacherib and the Assyrian army attempted to attack Jerusalem and were prevented by a divine intervention.
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Understanding the poem 'The Destruction of Sennacherib' by Lord Byron, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Understanding the poem 'The Destruction of Sennacherib' by Lord Byron, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Equipment
You need access to a copy of ‘The Destruction of Sennacherib’ by Lord Byron. This can be found in the Edexcel Poetry Anthology (we will be using the ‘Conflict’ cluster).
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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