On Shakespeare by John Milton Questions Answers
Very Short Answer Questions
Who is the author of the poem “On Shakespeare. 1630”?
The au thor of the poem is John Milton.
Who is the speaker in the poem?
The speaker in the poem is the poet himself, John Milton.
What is the setting of the poem?
The setting of the poem is not explicitly mentioned, but it revolves around the speaker’s tribute to William Shakespeare.
What are the main themes of the poem?
The main themes of the poem are admiration, tribute, and the enduring legacy of a great artist.
What is the plot of the poem?
The poem begins with the speaker stating that no monument is needed for Shakespeare as his works serve as his memorial.
What is the tone of the poem?
The tone of the poem is reverential and admiring.
What is the style of the poem?
Milton’s style is characterized by grandeur, stateliness, and majesty.
What does Milton say Shakespeare does not need for his remains?
An elaborate physical memorial
What does Milton compare Shakespeare’s poetry to?
The prophecies of the Oracle of Delphi
What does Milton say Shakespeare’s poetry makes us do?
Makes us marble with too much conceiving
What does Milton say Shakespeare’s tomb is?
His own poetry
Why does Milton say kings would wish to die for Shakespeare’s tomb?
Because his poetry is so great
What are some of the poetic devices Milton uses in the poem?
Metaphor, simile, and personification
What does Milton’s poem suggest about Shakespeare’s legacy?
That his work is timeless and will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come
Short Answer Questions
What is the message of the poem?
The message of the poem is that the true monument of a great artist is not a physical structure, but their works that continue to inspire and influence generations.
What is the rhyme scheme of the poem?
The rhyme scheme of this poem is AABBCCDDEEFFGGHH.
How does the speaker view Shakespeare in the poem?
The speaker views Shakespeare with deep admiration and respect.
What does the speaker say about Shakespeare’s works?
The speaker says that Shakespeare’s works serve as his memorial and will continue to inspire and influence generations.
What does the speaker say about the need for a monument for Shakespeare?
The speaker says that no monument is needed for Shakespeare as his works serve as his memorial.
What does the speaker say about the legacy of a great artist?
The speaker says that the true monument of a great artist is their works that continue to inspire and influence generations.
What does the speaker say about the nature of admiration?
The speaker expresses deep admiration for Shakespeare and his works.
What does the speaker say about the nature of tribute?
The speaker pays tribute to Shakespeare by praising his genius and the enduring influence of his works.
What does the speaker say about the enduring legacy of Shakespeare?
The speaker says that Shakespeare’s legacy will endure through his works that continue to inspire and influence generations.
What does the speaker say about the impact of Shakespeare’s works?
The speaker says that Shakespeare’s works will continue to inspire and influence generations.
What does the speaker say about the influence of a great artist?
The speaker says that a great artist influences generations through their works.
What does the speaker say about the power of art?
The speaker suggests that art has the power to immortalize an artist and continue to inspire and influence generations.
Why does Milton feel it is not necessary to put up a monument in stone for Shakespeare?
Milton believes that Shakespeare’s true monument is not made of stone but resides in the enduring impact of his literary works. The “live-long monument” is the influence he has on succeeding generations, making physical monuments unnecessary.
What does the ‘weak witness of thy name’ refer to?
The “weak witness of thy name” refers to the idea that physical monuments, such as those made of stone, are insufficient and feeble in comparison to the enduring impact and reputation of Shakespeare’s name, which is best witnessed through his literary legacy.
How does Milton describe Shakespeare as the source of inspiration for all succeeding generations of poets?
Milton suggests that Shakespeare, as the “dear son of Memory” and the “great heir of fame,” has built a lasting monument through his literary works. His verses flow easily, leaving a deep impression. He is portrayed as a source of inspiration, and subsequent poets draw inspiration from the profound lines in his unvalued book.
What is the best tribute that posterity has bestowed on Shakespeare?
According to the poem, the best tribute posterity has bestowed upon Shakespeare is the enduring impact of his works on the hearts and minds of readers. The fact that people continue to be inspired by and marvel at his writings is considered a more meaningful tribute than physical monuments.
