Themes: Transitory Nature of Life and Fame
“Ozymandias” is at first glance a sonnet about the transitory nature of life and its pretensions of fame and fortune. The decaying, ancient statue bears witness to the fact that the pursuit of power and glory for their own sakes are not only fleeting, but they are also illusory, unworthy ambitions even within the lifetime of their seekers.
Expert Q&A
Compare and contrast the views of life achievements in “Ozymandias” by Shelley and “Ulysses” by Tennyson. How do these views influence the poems' tones and interpretations?
"Ozymandias" by Shelley and "Ulysses" by Tennyson both explore the fleeting nature of power and achievements. Ozymandias's statue symbolizes the inevitable decay of once-great rulers, highlighting his obliviousness to life's transience. In contrast, Ulysses is self-aware, seeking to live fully despite his nearing end. The tone of "Ozymandias" is ironic and somber, while "Ulysses" is reflective and determined, driven by a desire for continued adventure and meaning.
The meaning and significance of "boundless and bare" in "Ozymandias."
The phrase "boundless and bare" in "Ozymandias" highlights the vast, empty desert surrounding the ruins of the statue, emphasizing the insignificance and impermanence of human achievements. This imagery serves to underscore the poem's central theme of the inevitable decline of all empires and the fleeting nature of power and glory.
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