POEMS OLD AND NEW
in " Rosabelle." What might be said against Macaulay's
introduction of so much geographical detail ?
Morte cTArthur.
1. Compare Tennyson's impression of the Age of Chivalry
with that of Morris in " Shameful Death." Which do
you think is nearer the truth ? Compare also Sir Walter
Scott's, as in " Ivanhoe."
2. Quote passages where onomatopoeia is used effectively.
3. Tennyson has been accused of straining after effect.
Point out any expressions that might justify this charge by
seeming forced or artificial.
4. Compare Tennyson's account with Malory's (p. 189).
What has Tennyson added or altered ?
The Lady ofShalott.
1. Point out passages where Tennyson uses a number
of bright colours together. If you can, examine any of
the pictures of Burne-Jones, Rossetti, or Morris, and notice
the similarity : or compare with RossettiJs " The Blessed
Damozel " or Morris's lyrics.
2. Contrast the atmosphere at the beginning of the
poem with that at the end (§ 4). How is each built up ?
3. Write a paragraph describing (a) the castle of Shalott,
(b) the surrounding country.
4. Relate briefly any other story of a curse or a charm
and the effect of breaking it.
5. Is the curse reasonable? How does Tennyson make
us accept it ?
6. Write a short appreciation of Tennyson's descriptions
of landscape and people. Quote specially vivid phrases or
passages.
Herve Riel.
1. Write a note on the metre and rhyme of this poem.
2. Point out examples of abruptness of style and in-
complete sentences. Do these obscure the meaning?
What is their effect on the narration ?
3. Contrast the deed and the reward.
4. " All in the day's work." Write a short story under
this title.
The Pied Piper of Hamelin.
1. What devices does Browning use for humorous effect?
Point out rhymes that produce humour.
2. Write a short appreciation of Browning's description
of (a) the Piper, (b) the rats, (c) the children.
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