Understanding ideas of patriotism and optimism in Brooke's 'The Soldier'
I can understand how Brooke presents the experience of dying at war.
Understanding ideas of patriotism and optimism in Brooke's 'The Soldier'
I can understand how Brooke presents the experience of dying at war.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Brooke’s patriotism is evident in this poem - he views England as paradise.
- Brooke’s poem arguably glorifies war - he presents an idealistic view of war.
- Brooke arguably presents death in war as the ultimate display of patriotism and bravery.
- The poem was praised when is was published in 1915, however modern readers may view this poem as naive.
- Despite his bravery and patriotism, Brooke never actually fought in the war - he died of infection on a ship.
Keywords
Patriotism - having or expressing devotion to and support for one's country
Sacrifice - to give up something valuable for the benefit of others
Devotion - an unwavering commitment to something
Idealistic - having unrealistic expectations
To glorify - to praise something or make it seem good or special, usually when it is not
Common misconception
Pupils might think that Brooke fought and died in the war because he wrote a war poem.
Although Brooke bravely volunteered to fight in the war, he never actually engaged in any military action. Unfortunately, Brooke died from septicaemia on a ship en route to battle.
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Understanding ideas of patriotism and optimism in Brooke's 'The Soldier', download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 english lesson on: Understanding ideas of patriotism and optimism in Brooke's 'The Soldier', 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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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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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 sensitive content
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Starter quiz
6 Questions
