Critical attitudes to powerful institutions in 'London' and 'Ozymandias'
I can compare how Romantic poets use language, form and structure to critique power and authority.
Critical attitudes to powerful institutions in 'London' and 'Ozymandias'
I can compare how Romantic poets use language, form and structure to critique power and authority.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Both poets critiqued the power held by institutions in society.
- Shelley focuses on the oppressor - King Ozymandias - and the tyrannical way he rules over his subjects.
- Blake focuses on the oppressed, exploring how corrupt institutions left people to suffer in abject poverty.
- Both Shelley and Blake were Romantic poets; their work critiques society while focusing on individual experiences.
- Both poets explore how power can be abused and advocate for an end to oppressive power.
Keywords
Succumb - giving way to the overwhelming power of another force
Condemn - express complete disapproval of
Futility - pointlessness or uselessness
Incessant - something unpleasant continuing without pause or interruption
Ephemeral - lasts for a very short time; fleeting and temporary
Common misconception
The Romantics were known for writing about love and romance.
The Romantics are not to be confused with 'romantics' who may write love poetry. The Romantics most commonly wrote about nature and were known for critiquing the direction of society's progress.
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Critical attitudes to powerful institutions in 'London' and 'Ozymandias', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Critical attitudes to powerful institutions in 'London' and 'Ozymandias', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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Explore more key stage 4 english lessons from the Poetry anthology unit, dive into the full secondary english curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
You will need access to a copy of the Eduqas poetry anthology for this lesson.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of peer pressure or bullying
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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