Essay Type Questions
Critical appreciation of the poem “On the Tombs in Westminster Abbey”.
Introduction Francis Beaumont’s “On the Tombs in Westminster Abbey” is a poignant reflection on mortality and the fleeting nature of earthly power and wealth. The poem, set in the historic Westminster Abbey, uses vivid imagery and thoughtful metaphors to convey its themes.
Theme The central theme of the poem is the inevitability of death and the transience of power and wealth. Beaumont underscores the idea that regardless of one’s status or accomplishments in life, death is the great equalizer. This theme is a common one in literature and philosophy, reflecting the universal human experience of mortality.
Setting The setting of the poem is Westminster Abbey, a notable burial site in London. This setting is significant as it houses the tombs of many powerful and influential individuals, serving as a stark reminder of mortality and the fleeting nature of earthly power and wealth. The Abbey, with its centuries-old tombs, provides a tangible connection to the past, reminding us of the transient nature of life.
Form and Structure The poem follows a rhyme scheme of AABBCCDDEEFFGGHHII and is written in iambic tetrameter. This form and structure lend a rhythmic quality to the poem, making it pleasing to the ear while also reinforcing its themes. The use of a single stanza suggests a continuous, unbroken reflection on death and mortality.
Imagery and Symbolism Beaumont uses vivid imagery to convey the themes of the poem. He describes the tombs as “pulpits sealed with dust” and the remains of the kings as “sands”, creating a vivid picture of death and decay. These images serve to underscore the themes of mortality and the transience of power and wealth. The “pulpits sealed with dust” symbolize the silenced voices of the once-powerful, while the “sands” symbolize the reduced state of the kings in death.
Tone and Mood The tone of the poem is somber and reflective. This tone invites the reader to contemplate the transience of life and the inevitability of death, reinforcing the poem’s central themes. The mood of the poem is similarly somber, reflecting the serious and contemplative nature of the subject matter.
Conclusion In conclusion, “On the Tombs in Westminster Abbey” is a powerful reflection on mortality and the fleeting nature of earthly power and wealth. Through vivid imagery, thoughtful metaphors, and a somber tone, Beaumont invites the reader to contemplate the transience of life and the inevitability of death. The poem serves as a reminder of our shared mortality, underscoring the idea that regardless of our achievements in life, we all meet the same fate in death.
