King Porus Legend of Old Analysis
Stanza I
Loudly the midnight tempest sang,
Ah! it was thy dirge, fair Liberty!
And clouds in thundering accents roar’d
Unheeded warning from on high;
The rain in darksome torrents fell,
Hydaspes’ waves did onward sweep,
Like fiery Passion’s headlong flow,
To meet th’ awaken’d calling deep;
The lighting flashed bright— dazzling,like
Fair women’s glance from ‘neath her veil;’
And on the heaving, troubled air,
There was a moaning sound of wail
But, Ind! thy unsuspecting sons
Did heedless slumber,— while the foe
Came in stealthy step of death,—
Came as the tiger, noiseless, slow,
To close at once its victim’s breath!
Alas! they knew not ‘midst this gloom’
This war of elements was burst,—
Like to an earthquake in the womb
Of a volcano,— deep and low—
A deadlier storm—on them to burst!
Explanation: In the first stanza of “King Porus”, Madhusudan Dutt paints a vivid picture of a chaotic and ominous night. The storm that rages reflects both nature’s fury and the looming political catastrophe about to befall the unsuspecting land.
“Loudly the midnight tempest sang, Ah! it was thy dirge, fair Liberty!”
The stanza opens with the tempest (storm) personified as a singer, indicating that the storm itself is foreboding doom. The “dirge” refers to a mournful song for the dead, and here it is sung for “fair Liberty,” symbolizing the impending destruction of freedom in the land of India. The liberty of the nation is metaphorically being buried, as if the storm is a harbinger of the downfall of the Indian people.
“And clouds in thundering accents roar’d / Unheeded warning from on high;”
The clouds are given human attributes, “thundering accents,” and are depicted as roaring warnings from the heavens. These warnings are “unheeded”—the people do not listen, indicating that the signs of impending disaster go unnoticed by the nation, adding to the sense of tragic irony.
“The rain in darksome torrents fell, / Hydaspes’ waves did onward sweep,”
The rain falls in dark torrents, matching the ominous mood. The mention of Hydaspes (a river in the Punjab region, now known as the Jhelum River) ties the natural turmoil to a historical and geographical setting. The river, like the approaching storm, is unstoppable, representing the tide of battle and destruction that will soon sweep the nation.
“Like fiery Passion’s headlong flow, / To meet th’ awaken’d calling deep;”
Here, Dutt compares the flow of the river to “fiery Passion,” suggesting an intense, uncontrollable force heading towards a great depth, which can symbolize the abyss of war or destruction. This suggests that the storm mirrors human passion and violence, which is also about to erupt.
“The lighting flashed bright— dazzling, like / Fair women’s glance from ‘neath her veil;”
The lightning is described as dazzling, like the quick, bright glance of a woman from beneath her veil. This simile brings a moment of beauty and intensity into the chaos, contrasting the destruction of nature with a fleeting image of grace. The sudden flash of lightning represents the suddenness of war, destruction, and fate’s cruelty.
“And on the heaving, troubled air, / There was a moaning sound of wail”
The “heaving, troubled air” personifies the atmosphere as being in distress. The wailing sound is a metaphor for the sorrow that will soon follow the invasion, symbolizing the collective mourning of a people unaware of the disaster closing in on them.
“But, Ind! thy unsuspecting sons / Did heedless slumber,— while the foe / Came in stealthy step of death,”
India (Ind) is addressed directly, emphasizing that its people are unaware of the danger. They sleep “heedless,” oblivious to the fact that the enemy is creeping upon them. The phrase “stealthy step of death” compares the approach of the enemy to death itself, arriving quietly and unexpectedly, like a predator.
“Came as the tiger, noiseless, slow, / To close at once its victim’s breath!”
The enemy’s approach is compared to a tiger, emphasizing its silent, deadly, and calculated nature. The image of the tiger stalking its prey heightens the tension and builds anticipation for the sudden, violent strike. The death metaphor highlights the sudden, inevitable nature of the attack.
“Alas! they knew not ‘midst this gloom / This war of elements was burst,”
The poem expresses sorrow that the people did not realize what was happening amid the “gloom”—a metaphor for their ignorance and the literal darkness of the night. The “war of elements” (the storm) symbolizes the political and military disaster that is about to descend upon them.
“Like to an earthquake in the womb / Of a volcano,— deep and low— / A deadlier storm—on them to burst!”
This final metaphor compares the impending disaster to an earthquake inside a volcano—both catastrophic forces of nature. The implication is that what is to come (the invasion) is even more destructive than the natural storm currently unfolding. It foretells a greater storm—the storm of war and conquest—that will burst forth with unimaginable force.
Personification: The storm and the clouds are personified (“the midnight tempest sang,” “clouds in thundering accents roar’d”), giving human-like qualities to nature, as if nature itself is lamenting the loss of liberty and warning of the impending destruction.
Simile: Similes are used to create vivid imagery:
“Like fiery Passion’s headlong flow”: The river’s movement is likened to passion, showing its intense and unstoppable force.
“Like fair women’s glance from ‘neath her veil”: Lightning is compared to the fleeting, dazzling glance of a woman, bringing a moment of beauty into the chaos.
“Came as the tiger”: The enemy is compared to a stalking tiger, highlighting their stealth and lethal intent.
Metaphor: “The tempest sang”: The storm is metaphorically described as singing a dirge for Liberty, symbolizing the impending loss of freedom.
“Stealthy step of death”: The enemy’s approach is compared to death, reinforcing the sense of inevitable destruction.
“A deadlier storm”: The invasion is metaphorically described as a “storm,” more destructive than the literal one.
Alliteration: Repetition of consonant sounds adds musicality to the poem, e.g., “stealthy step”. These enhance the rhythm and evoke the silent, creeping approach of the enemy.
Imagery: The poem is rich in visual and auditory imagery. The descriptions of the storm, lightning, the tiger, and the wailing air create a vivid sense of impending doom. The use of sensory details like “darksome torrents,” “moaning sound of wail,” and “lightning flashed bright” appeals to the reader’s senses, immersing them in the unfolding disaster.
Symbolism: Liberty: Personified as “fair,” representing the political freedom of the nation, which is being mourned.
Tiger: Represents the enemy’s stealth and lethal power.
Storm: A symbol of the chaos and destruction that follows invasion, reflecting both natural and political turmoil.
Anaphora: The phrase “Came” is repeated at the beginning to emphasize the stealthy, inevitable approach of the enemy. This heightens the suspense and builds tension leading to the climax of the stanza.
Stanza II
‘Twas morn; the Lord of Day
From gold Sumero’s palace bright,
Look’d his own sweet dime,
But lo! the glorious flag,
To which the world in awe once bow’d,
There in defiance waved
On India’s gales— triumphant—proud!—
Then, rose the dreadful yell,—
Then lion-like, each warrior brave
Rushed on the coming foe,
To strike for freedom—or the grave!
Oh Death! upon thy gory altar
What blood-libations freely flow’d!
Oh Earth! on that bright morn, what thousands
Rendered to thee the dust they ow’d!
But ‘fore the Macedonians driven’
Fell India’s hardy sons,—
Proud mountain oaks by thunders riven,—
That for their country’s freedom bled—
And made on gore their glorious bed!
Explanation:
“‘Twas morn; the Lord of Day / From gold Sumero’s palace bright,”
The stanza begins at dawn, with the “Lord of Day” referring to the sun. “Sumero’s palace” likely symbolizes the east, where the sun rises. The sun, a symbol of life and hope, watches over the earth, unaware of the battle that is about to unfold. This description invokes a calm and serene moment, contrasting with the violent action to follow.
“Look’d his own sweet dime, / But lo! the glorious flag,”
As the sun shines on its domain, it sees the “glorious flag”—a symbol of the mighty and proud past of India. This flag, once revered by the world, now stands as a defiant banner in the face of invasion. The idea of the flag waving “in defiance” suggests India’s resistance to the foreign conqueror, a symbol of its will to fight for independence.
“To which the world in awe once bow’d, / There in defiance waved / On India’s gales— triumphant—proud!”
The flag represents India’s former glory, and the poet laments how the world once respected and bowed before this symbol. However, in this moment of war, the flag continues to wave proudly, a symbol of the nation’s enduring strength and defiance against Alexander’s invading army.
“Then, rose the dreadful yell,— / Then lion-like, each warrior brave / Rushed on the coming foe,”
A “dreadful yell” erupts as the Indian warriors charge into battle, compared to lions. The simile “lion-like” portrays the warriors as fierce and fearless, emphasizing their courage and resolve. Their purpose is clear—they will either fight for their freedom or die trying. This image of warriors rushing forward evokes a scene of intense action and raw determination.
“To strike for freedom—or the grave!”
This line underscores the warriors’ mindset: they will either win their freedom or find their graves on the battlefield. It highlights the sense of sacrifice and the willingness to die for their homeland.
“Oh Death! upon thy gory altar / What blood-libations freely flow’d!”
The poet invokes Death as if it were a deity, with the battlefield acting as its “gory altar.” The blood of the fallen warriors is offered like libations, reinforcing the idea that the battlefield is a sacred place of sacrifice, where lives are freely given in the name of freedom.
“Oh Earth! on that bright morn, what thousands / Rendered to thee the dust they ow’d!”
The poet speaks to the Earth, noting how thousands of lives were lost on that fateful morning. “Rendered to thee the dust they ow’d” refers to the fallen soldiers returning to the earth, becoming part of the soil once more. This line reflects the inevitable return to dust after death and the high cost of war in human life.
“But ‘fore the Macedonians driven’ / Fell India’s hardy sons,”
Despite their bravery, India’s warriors fall before the might of the Macedonian army. The poem acknowledges the overwhelming force of Alexander’s army, which drives the Indian soldiers back.
“Proud mountain oaks by thunders riven,— / That for their country’s freedom bled—”
The Indian soldiers are compared to “proud mountain oaks,” symbolizing their strength and resilience. However, just as thunder can shatter even the strongest trees, the warriors are defeated by the invading army. The image of oaks being “riven” (split) by thunder highlights both the nobility and the tragedy of their fall.
“And made on gore their glorious bed!”
The final line of the stanza is particularly striking. The fallen warriors lie in the bloodshed, but this death is portrayed as “glorious.” Their sacrifice is not in vain; they have died with honor, fighting for their homeland. The phrase “glorious bed” suggests that death in battle, while tragic, is also noble and heroic.
Poetic Device:
Personification: The sun is personified as the “Lord of Day” who looks over the world, giving it human-like qualities of vision and awareness.
Death is also personified, as the poet speaks of its “gory altar,” suggesting that it is an active force on the battlefield, consuming the lives of warriors.
Simile: “Lion-like, each warrior brave”: This comparison emphasizes the fierce courage and strength of the Indian warriors, likening them to lions, symbolizing nobility and ferocity.
Metaphor: The battlefield is compared to an altar of death, where the soldiers’ lives are sacrificed like offerings. This metaphor elevates the battle to a sacred ritual of sacrifice.
“What blood-libations freely flow’d!”: The blood of the warriors is metaphorically described as libations, or ritual offerings, to Death.
Imagery: The stanza is rich in visual imagery, from the sun rising over the battlefield to the Indian flag waving proudly in defiance. The “dreadful yell” of the warriors and the “gory altar” of Death create a vivid picture of the chaotic and brutal battle.
The imagery of fallen soldiers becoming part of the earth (“rendered to thee the dust they ow’d”) further evokes the deep connection between sacrifice and the land.
Symbolism: The flag symbolizes India’s defiance and enduring spirit, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
Blood-libations: Symbolic of the ultimate sacrifice, the lives given on the battlefield are compared to offerings made to a god.
Mountain oaks: These trees symbolize the strength and resilience of the Indian warriors, yet their fall signifies the overpowering force of the enemy.
Stanza III
But dauntlessly there stood
King Porus, towering ‘midst the foe’
Like a Himala-peak
With its eternal crown of snow:
And on his brow did shine
The jewell’d regal diadem.
His milk-white elephant
Was deck’d with many a brilliant gem.
He reck’d not of the phalanx
That ‘round him closed—but nobly fought’
And like the angry winds that blow
And lofty mountain pines lay low,
Amidst them dreadful havoc wrought,
And thinn’d his crown and country’s foe!
The hardiest warriors, at his deeds,
Awe—struck quail’d like wind-shaken reeds:
They dared not look upon his face,
They shrank before his burning gaze,
For in his eye the hero shone
That feared not death;—but high—alone
A being as if of lightning made,
That scorch’d all that is gazed upon—
Trampling the living with the dead.
Explanation:
“But dauntlessly there stood / King Porus, towering ‘midst the foe’”
The stanza begins with a powerful image of King Porus standing fearlessly in the midst of his enemies. The word “dauntlessly” highlights his unyielding courage and determination, suggesting that he remains calm and steadfast even as danger surrounds him. Porus is portrayed as a towering figure, both physically and metaphorically, representing strength and leadership.
“Like a Himala-peak / With its eternal crown of snow:”
Porus is compared to a Himalayan peak, with its “eternal crown of snow.” This simile emphasizes his majesty, invincibility, and steadfastness. The image of the Himalayas, the tallest and most unshakable mountains in the world, reinforces the idea that Porus is an immovable force in the face of adversity. The “eternal crown of snow” symbolizes his regal presence and unchanging resolve, despite the violence around him.
“And on his brow did shine / The jewell’d regal diadem.”
The diadem, a jeweled crown worn by royalty, gleams on Porus’ brow, signifying his status as a king. This image reinforces his authority and nobility, further distinguishing him as a figure of grandeur and honor amidst the chaos of battle.
“His milk-white elephant / Was deck’d with many a brilliant gem.”
King Porus rides a “milk-white elephant,” a symbol of royal power and majesty in Indian culture. The elephant is richly adorned with brilliant gems, showcasing both Porus’ wealth and his prominence as a king. The bright imagery of the elephant contrasts with the grim scene of battle, emphasizing his royal splendor even in the midst of conflict.
“He reck’d not of the phalanx / That ‘round him closed—but nobly fought’”
Despite being surrounded by the enemy phalanx (a tight formation of soldiers), Porus remains undeterred and continues to fight valiantly. The phrase “reck’d not” suggests that he is unconcerned by the odds against him. His focus is on the battle, and he fights nobly, which showcases his bravery and sense of honor.
“And like the angry winds that blow / And lofty mountain pines lay low,”
Porus’ impact on the battlefield is compared to a fierce wind that topples tall pine trees. This simile emphasizes the destructive force of his combat, as he brings down enemy soldiers like a storm felling mighty trees. It highlights both the power and the devastation of his efforts, as he cuts through the ranks of his enemies.
“Amidst them dreadful havoc wrought, / And thinn’d his crown and country’s foe!”
Porus wreaks “dreadful havoc” on the enemy, reducing their numbers and weakening their forces. The phrase “thinn’d his crown and country’s foe” underscores the dual role of Porus as both a king and a defender of his homeland, fighting to protect his crown and his people from their enemies.
“The hardiest warriors, at his deeds, / Awe—struck quail’d like wind-shaken reeds:”
Even the most experienced and brave warriors are struck with awe at the sight of Porus’ deeds. They “quail’d” (trembled in fear), likened to “wind-shaken reeds.” This simile contrasts their weakness and fear with Porus’ strength and power, showing how intimidating his presence and actions are on the battlefield.
“They dared not look upon his face, / They shrank before his burning gaze,”
Porus’ fierce gaze instills fear in his enemies, who dare not look him in the eye. The “burning gaze” suggests intense determination, confidence, and defiance, adding to the aura of invincibility surrounding him. His presence alone is enough to make his enemies retreat in fear.
“For in his eye the hero shone / That feared not death;—but high—alone”
The poem highlights the heroic nature of Porus, who shines with bravery and does not fear death. He is portrayed as an exceptional figure, standing “high—alone,” a testament to his extraordinary courage and leadership. This further elevates Porus from an ordinary warrior to a larger-than-life hero.
“A being as if of lightning made, / That scorch’d all that is gazed upon—”
Porus is likened to lightning, a powerful and destructive force of nature. This metaphor suggests that his very presence is overwhelming and that he destroys everything in his path, whether friend or foe. The idea of “scorching all that is gazed upon” adds to the fear and respect he commands.
“Trampling the living with the dead.”
In the final line, Porus is described as trampling over both the living and the dead, reinforcing his dominance on the battlefield. He is a force so unstoppable that it makes no difference whether his enemies are alive or already fallen. This line portrays him as a relentless, almost divine figure in battle.
Poetic Device:
Simile: “Like a Himala-peak”: Porus is compared to a towering Himalayan mountain, symbolizing his immovability and grandeur.
“Like wind-shaken reeds”: The enemy warriors are compared to reeds trembling in the wind, illustrating their fear and weakness in the face of Porus’ power.
“Like the angry winds”: Porus’ attacks are likened to fierce winds that bring down tall trees, symbolizing his strength and the destruction he causes.
Metaphor: “A being as if of lightning made”: Porus is compared to lightning, emphasizing his destructive power and the fear he inspires. This metaphor suggests that his presence is both awe-inspiring and dangerous.
“His milk-white elephant”: The elephant, a symbol of royalty and strength, is used as a metaphor for Porus’ regal status.
Personification: The elephant is described as being “deck’d with many a brilliant gem,” giving it a majestic and almost human-like dignity in its adornment.
Imagery: The vivid description of Porus standing tall like a mountain, adorned with jewels, riding a majestic elephant, and causing havoc among his enemies creates strong visual imagery. The scene of Porus trampling the living and dead alike adds a powerful image of total dominance in battle.
Symbolism: The Himalayas: Symbolizes Porus’ immovability and eternal strength.
The diadem and gems: Represent his royal power and status as king.
Stanza IV
Th’ immortal Thund’rer’s son,
Astonish’d eyed the heroic king;
He saw him bravely charge
Like his dread father,— fulmining:—
Tho’ thousands’ round him closed,
He stood—as stand the ocean rock
Amdist the lashing billows
Unmoved at their fierce thoundering shock.
But when th’ Emathian conqueror
Saw that with gaping wounds he bled,
‘Desist—desist!’—he cried—
‘Such noble blood should not be shed!’
Then a herald was sent
Where bleeding and faint,
Stood, ‘midst the dying’ and the dead,
King Porus,— boldly, undismayed:
‘Hail, brave and warlike prince!’
Thy generous rival bids thee cease—
Behold! there flies the flag,
That lulls dread war, and wakens peace!’
Explanation:
“Th’ immortal Thund’rer’s son, / Astonish’d eyed the heroic king;”
This line refers to Alexander the Great as the “Thund’rer’s son,” a reference to Zeus, who was believed to be Alexander’s divine father in Greek mythology. Alexander, astonished, watches King Porus with admiration. The use of “Astonish’d” suggests that Porus’ bravery and resilience impress even the most powerful conqueror.
“He saw him bravely charge / Like his dread father,— fulmining:—”
Alexander compares Porus’ bravery to that of Zeus, who was known for wielding thunderbolts (“fulmining”). This simile likens Porus to a god, suggesting that his courage and strength are so great that they rival those of the king of the gods. It elevates Porus to a near-divine status, highlighting his extraordinary valor.
“Tho’ thousands’ round him closed, / He stood—as stand the ocean rock / Amidst the lashing billows / Unmoved at their fierce thundering shock.”
Despite being surrounded by thousands of enemy soldiers, Porus stands firm like a rock in the ocean. The “ocean rock” metaphor suggests that Porus is unyielding and immovable, even as the “lashing billows” (waves) of battle crash against him. The image of the ocean reinforces the sense of overwhelming odds, but Porus remains unaffected, symbolizing his unshakable resolve.
“But when th’ Emathian conqueror / Saw that with gaping wounds he bled,”
Alexander, referred to as the “Emathian conqueror” (Emathia being an ancient name for Macedonia), notices that Porus is bleeding from numerous wounds. This moment humanizes Porus, showing that despite his heroic stance, he is still vulnerable to the physical toll of the battle.
“‘Desist—desist!’—he cried— / ‘Such noble blood should not be shed!’”
Moved by Porus’ bravery and honor, Alexander calls for the battle to stop. His command, “Desist—desist!” reflects his admiration for Porus and his desire to save him from further harm. He recognizes the nobility of Porus’ character and believes that “such noble blood” should not be wasted in battle. This moment highlights Alexander’s respect for his opponent.
“Then a herald was sent / Where bleeding and faint, / Stood, ‘midst the dying’ and the dead,”
Alexander sends a herald to deliver the message of peace to Porus. Porus is described as standing “bleeding and faint,” surrounded by the dead and dying, emphasizing the severity of the battle and his own condition. Despite his injuries, Porus is still standing, a testament to his strength and resolve.
“King Porus,— boldly, undismayed:”
Even in his weakened state, Porus remains “boldly, undismayed.” This highlights his inner strength and bravery, showing that he does not cower or retreat in the face of danger, injury, or defeat. He is unwavering in his honor and courage.
“‘Hail, brave and warlike prince!’ / Thy generous rival bids thee cease—”
The herald greets Porus with respect, acknowledging him as a “brave and warlike prince.” The phrase “thy generous rival” refers to Alexander, who is now viewed not just as a conqueror but as a magnanimous rival who respects Porus’ bravery and offers peace instead of further bloodshed.
“Behold! there flies the flag, / That lulls dread war, and wakens peace!”
The herald points to the flag that signals the end of the battle. This flag “lulls dread war” and “wakens peace,” symbolizing the shift from violence to reconciliation. The flag represents a truce, signaling that the conflict has ended and peace is being offered.
Poetic Device:
Simile: “Like his dread father,— fulmining”: Porus is compared to Zeus, the god of thunder, likening his bravery to the divine power of Zeus’ thunderbolts.
“As stand the ocean rock / Amidst the lashing billows”: Porus is compared to an unyielding rock standing firm in the face of crashing waves, symbolizing his immovability and courage.
Metaphor: “Thund’rer’s son”: Refers to Alexander, metaphorically linking him to Zeus, the god of thunder, thereby emphasizing his own divine-like status in the poem.
“The flag / That lulls dread war, and wakens peace”: The flag is personified as having the power to end war and bring peace, symbolizing the truce offered by Alexander.
Personification: “Lulls dread war, and wakens peace”: War and peace are personified, with the flag having the ability to quiet war and bring peace to life, adding a sense of control and power to the symbol of the flag.
Imagery: The image of Porus standing like a rock amidst the crashing waves and the “bleeding and faint” king surrounded by the dead and dying creates a powerful and dramatic visual. The depiction of the flag flying at the end, symbolizing peace, provides a strong contrast to the battle imagery.
Symbolism: The ocean rock: Symbolizes Porus’ strength and resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.
The flag: Symbolizes peace and reconciliation, signaling the end of the battle and a new beginning.
Blood: Symbolizes both the sacrifice of war and the noble character of those who fight for their cause.
Repetition: The phrase “Desist—desist!” is repeated to emphasize Alexander’s urgency in stopping the battle and to signal the shift from war to peace.
Stanza V
Like to a lion chain’d,
That tho’ faint—bleeding—stands in pride—
With eyes, where unsubdued
Yet flash’d the fire—looks that defied;
King Porus boldly went
Where ‘midst the gay and flittering crowd’
Sat god-like Alexander;
While ‘round’ Earth’s mightiest monarchs bow’d.
King Porus was no slave;
he stooped not—bent not there his knee,—
But stood, as stands an oak,
In Himalayan majesty.
‘The mighty king of Macedon:’
‘Ev’n as a King,’ replied
In royal pride, Ind’s haughty son.
The conqu’ror pleas’d,
Him forth releas’d:
Thus India’s crown was lost and won.
Explanation:
“Like to a lion chain’d, / That tho’ faint—bleeding—stands in pride—”
King Porus is compared to a chained lion, symbolizing both his strength and his current state of captivity. Though he is wounded and weak from the battle, he still stands tall with pride. The lion imagery reinforces his regal nature and suggests that, despite his injuries, he remains a powerful figure. The image of a lion also symbolizes resilience, dignity, and untamed spirit.
“With eyes, where unsubdued / Yet flash’d the fire—looks that defied;”
Although he is physically weakened, Porus’ spirit remains unbroken. His eyes still flash with defiance, reflecting his inner strength and refusal to submit to his conqueror. The “unsubdued” fire in his eyes is a metaphor for his undying spirit, which cannot be extinguished, even in defeat. This highlights his unyielding nature and his refusal to surrender his pride or dignity.
“King Porus boldly went / Where ‘midst the gay and flittering crowd’”
Despite his weakened state, Porus boldly approaches Alexander, who is seated among a lively and glittering assembly of people. The phrase “gay and flittering crowd” contrasts with the solemn and brave figure of Porus, who stands out in this environment, emphasizing his dignity and courage amidst the pomp and grandeur of the Macedonian court.
“Sat god-like Alexander; / While ‘round’ Earth’s mightiest monarchs bow’d.”
Alexander is described as “god-like,” seated in a position of power and authority. Around him, the mightiest rulers of the world bow in submission, highlighting the sheer dominance of Alexander’s empire. This further emphasizes the magnitude of Porus’ defiance, as he refuses to bend to the conqueror like the others.
“King Porus was no slave; / he stooped not—bent not there his knee,—”
Porus refuses to kneel or show any form of submission to Alexander. His refusal to bow, despite being a defeated king, demonstrates his unwavering pride and sense of honor. This act of defiance signifies that while Porus may have lost the battle, he has not lost his dignity or his identity as a king.
“But stood, as stands an oak, / In Himalayan majesty.”
Porus is compared to an oak tree standing tall in the Himalayas, symbolizing his resilience, strength, and grandeur. The oak tree represents stability and endurance, and the reference to the Himalayas further enhances the image of his unshakable majesty. Just like a strong tree rooted in the mountains, Porus remains rooted in his principles and pride, even in the face of defeat.
“‘The mighty king of Macedon:’ / ‘Ev’n as a King,’ replied / In royal pride, Ind’s haughty son.”
When Alexander addresses him as “the mighty king of Macedon,” Porus responds with equal pride, identifying himself as a king too. His reply, “Ev’n as a King,” reflects his regal pride and reminds Alexander that he, too, is a ruler of great stature, despite his defeat. This exchange underscores the mutual respect between the two leaders.
“The conqu’ror pleas’d, / Him forth releas’d:”
Alexander is pleased with Porus’ noble conduct and defiance. Impressed by his bravery and sense of honor, Alexander grants him freedom, recognizing his worth not as a conquered enemy but as a fellow king. This act of generosity signifies Alexander’s respect for his rival.
“Thus India’s crown was lost and won.”
The final line reflects the larger theme of the poem—though Porus has lost the battle, his defiance and dignity have earned him Alexander’s respect, symbolizing a moral victory. The phrase “India’s crown” refers to the country’s independence and sovereignty, which was lost in battle but, in a way, also “won” through the honor and resilience of King Porus.
Poetic Device:
Simile: “Like to a lion chain’d”: Porus is compared to a chained lion, symbolizing his restrained yet powerful nature, despite his wounds and captivity.
“As stands an oak, / In Himalayan majesty”: Porus is likened to a tall, immovable oak tree, symbolizing his strength and majesty, even in defeat.
Metaphor: “With eyes, where unsubdued / Yet flash’d the fire”: The “fire” in Porus’ eyes is a metaphor for his undying spirit and defiance, which remains even after his physical defeat.
“India’s crown”: This metaphor represents the sovereignty and independence of India, which is lost in the battle but, in a way, also regained through Porus’ honorable conduct.
Personification: “Fire—looks that defied”: The “fire” in Porus’ eyes is personified as something that actively defies, representing his inner strength and resistance.
Imagery: The image of Porus standing like a “lion chain’d,” bleeding but proud, and the comparison to an oak tree standing tall in the Himalayas, create strong visual imagery of his strength, dignity, and unshakable resolve. The “gay and flittering crowd” around Alexander contrasts with Porus’ serious and solemn figure, reinforcing his dignity in the face of defeat.
Symbolism: The lion: A symbol of nobility, courage, and power, even in captivity. Porus’ comparison to a lion emphasizes his untamed spirit and pride.
The oak: Symbolizes strength, endurance, and majesty, representing Porus’ refusal to bend, even after his defeat.
India’s crown: Symbolizes the nation’s sovereignty and pride, lost to Alexander but preserved in the spirit of Porus.
Stanza VI
But where, Oh! where is Porus now?
And where the noble hearts that bled
For freedom—with the herioc glow
In patriot bosoms nourished—
—Hearts, eagle-like that recked not death,
But shrank before foul Thraldom’s breath?
And where art thou—fair Freedom!—thou
Once goodness of Ind’s sunny clime
When glory’s halo round her brow
Shone radiant, and she rose sublime,
Like her own towering Himalye
To kiss blue clouds thron’d on high!
Clime of the sun!—How like a Dream—
How like bright sun-beams on a stream
That melt beneath gray twilight’s eye—
That glory hath now flitted by!
The crown that once did deck thy brow
Is tramped down—and thou sunk low;
Thy pearl, thy diamond and thy mine
Of glistening gold no more is thine.
Alas!—each conquering tyrant’s lust
Has robb’d thee of thy very dust!
Thou standest like a lofty tree
Shorn of fruits — blossoms — leaves and all—
Of every gale the sport to be.
Despised and scorned e’en in thy fall?
Explanation:
“But where, Oh! where is Porus now?”
The stanza opens with a rhetorical question, lamenting the loss of King Porus and the noble virtues he represented. The speaker questions what has become of such figures of heroism, drawing attention to their absence in the present day. This immediately sets a tone of regret and nostalgia for a time when valor and honor were embodied by leaders like Porus.
“And where the noble hearts that bled / For freedom—with the heroic glow / In patriot bosoms nourished—”
The poet reflects on the courageous individuals who once fought for freedom, driven by a deep sense of patriotism. These “noble hearts” are remembered for their willingness to sacrifice their lives for the cause of liberty. The “heroic glow” in their bosoms symbolizes the undying spirit and devotion to their nation, contrasting with the present state of despair and loss.
“—Hearts, eagle-like that recked not death, / But shrank before foul Thraldom’s breath?”
These brave souls are compared to eagles, symbolizing their nobility, fearlessness, and soaring spirit. They did not fear death in battle, but they recoiled at the thought of living in slavery or oppression (“foul Thraldom’s breath”). This further emphasizes their unwavering commitment to freedom, preferring death over subjugation.
“And where art thou—fair Freedom!—thou / Once goodness of Ind’s sunny clime”
The poet directly addresses Freedom, personifying it as a fair and noble force that once graced India (“Ind’s sunny clime”). There is a sense of longing for the time when Freedom was cherished and present in the land, making the current state of enslavement and loss more tragic.
“When glory’s halo round her brow / Shone radiant, and she rose sublime,”
The poet reminisces about a time when India’s freedom was glorious, with a “halo” of radiance surrounding her, elevating her to a state of sublimity. This imagery of a radiant, exalted figure reflects India’s past grandeur and prosperity when freedom was an intrinsic part of the nation’s identity.
“Like her own towering Himalye / To kiss blue clouds thron’d on high!”
Freedom is compared to the majestic Himalayas, India’s tallest and most revered natural feature. This comparison emphasizes how lofty and exalted India’s freedom once was, standing tall and proud, as if reaching for the heavens (“to kiss blue clouds”). This also mirrors the earlier comparison of Porus to the Himalayas, symbolizing strength and resilience.
“Clime of the sun!—How like a Dream— / How like bright sun-beams on a stream / That melt beneath gray twilight’s eye—”
The poet addresses India as the “clime of the sun,” invoking its warm, vibrant character. He compares the nation’s past glory to a “dream” or fleeting sunbeams on a stream, which disappear as twilight sets in. This symbolizes how quickly and tragically India’s glory and freedom have faded away, evoking a sense of deep loss and melancholy.
“That glory hath now flitted by! / The crown that once did deck thy brow / Is tramped down—and thou sunk low;”
India’s former glory, symbolized by the “crown” on her brow, has been crushed and trampled upon. The poet mourns how the nation has fallen from its previous heights of grandeur to a state of subjugation and despair. This imagery of the crown being trampled signifies the destruction of both sovereignty and pride.
“Thy pearl, thy diamond and thy mine / Of glistening gold no more is thine.”
The poet laments how India’s wealth—its pearls, diamonds, and gold—has been taken away by its conquerors. These precious resources symbolize not just material wealth but also the nation’s cultural and spiritual richness, which has been lost under foreign domination.
“Alas!—each conquering tyrant’s lust / Has robb’d thee of thy very dust!”
The poet expresses sorrow over the many conquerors who have come to India, driven by greed and lust for power. They have not only taken its wealth but have also degraded the nation to the point of robbing it of its very essence (“dust”). This line conveys the depth of the devastation brought upon the country by repeated invasions and exploitation.
“Thou standest like a lofty tree / Shorn of fruits — blossoms — leaves and all—”
India is likened to a once-great tree that has been stripped of its fruits, blossoms, and leaves, leaving it barren and vulnerable. This powerful metaphor highlights the nation’s current state of desolation, devoid of the prosperity and beauty it once possessed.
“Of every gale the sport to be. / Despised and scorned e’en in thy fall?”
The poem concludes with a haunting image of India, now reduced to a plaything for every passing wind (“Of every gale the sport to be”). Even in its fallen state, India is despised and scorned by others, suggesting the depth of its humiliation and powerlessness in the face of continued foreign domination.
Poetic Device:
Rhetorical Questions: “But where, Oh! where is Porus now?” and “And where art thou—fair Freedom!”: These questions emphasize the poet’s sense of loss and lamentation. They are not meant to be answered but to express sorrow for the absence of great leaders and the lost freedom.
Simile: “Hearts, eagle-like”: The hearts of the brave are compared to eagles, symbolizing their fearlessness and nobility.
“How like bright sun-beams on a stream”: The fading of India’s glory is compared to sunbeams disappearing on a stream, emphasizing the transient and fragile nature of past glory.
Metaphor: “The crown that once did deck thy brow”: The crown is a metaphor for India’s sovereignty and pride, which has been lost under foreign rule.
“Thou standest like a lofty tree / Shorn of fruits — blossoms — leaves”: India is metaphorically represented as a tree that has been stripped of its vitality, symbolizing the nation’s decline and loss of prosperity.
Personification: “Freedom”: Freedom is personified as a fair and noble entity that once resided in India but has now disappeared. This emphasizes the profound loss of liberty.
“Each conquering tyrant’s lust”: Lust is personified as a driving force behind the conquerors, suggesting that their greed and desire for power have led to India’s downfall.
Imagery: The poet uses vivid imagery to portray India’s decline, from the “glistening gold” that is no longer hers to the image of a tree stripped of all its beauty. The contrast between past and present is vividly drawn through descriptions of India’s former glory and its current desolation.
Symbolism: The crown, pearls, diamonds, and gold: These symbols represent India’s lost wealth, both material and spiritual. They serve as metaphors for the nation’s greatness, which has been stolen by foreign powers.
The lofty tree: Symbolizes India’s former strength and vitality, now reduced to a barren, helpless state.
