104 -Assignment "Lord Alfred Tennyson: The Victorian Era Wordsmith"

Assignment 104 : "Lord Alfred Tennyson: The Victorian Era Wordsmith"

This blog is part of an assignment for the paper 104 - Literature of Victorians, Sem - 1, 2023.

"Lord Alfred Tennyson: The Victorian Era Wordsmith"

Table of Contents:-

Personal Information

Assignment Details

Abstract

Keywords

Introduction

Alfred Lord Tennyson: A Life Woven in Verse

Conclusion

References

Personal Information:-

Name:-Chavada Nanda

Batch:- M.A. Sem 1 (2023-2024)

Enrollment Number:-5108230012

E-mailAddress:-nandachavada@gmail.com

Roll Number:- 23

Assignment Details:-

Topic:- "Lord Alfred Tennyson: The Victorian Era Wordsmith"

Paper & subject code:-104 - Literature of the Victorians & 22395

Submitted to:- Smt. Sujata Binoy Gardi, Department of English, MKBU, Bhavnagar

Date of Submission:- 01 December,2023

Abstract:

This exploration delves into the transformative period from Queen Victoria's ascent to the throne in 1837 until 1900, characterized by both progress and unrest. The departure from romantic ideals marked the emergence of a "modern period of progress and unrest," witnessed in the realms of science, arts, and societal dynamics. Focused on the poetic journey of William Wordsworth and Alfred Lord Tennyson, it navigates the nuanced landscape of shifting sentiments, societal challenges, and a transition from romantic fervor to a prosaic outlook. Tennyson's life, intricately woven in verse, reflects the multifaceted facets of the Victorian age, encompassing personal struggles, societal commentaries, and a profound exploration of the human experience.

Keywords:

Victorian era, Romanticism, Progress, Social Unrest, William Wordsworth, Alfred Lord Tennyson, Poet Laureate, Prosaic, Material Development, Moral Stability, Imagination, Scientific Themes, In Memoriam.

Introduction :

The age that commenced with Queen Victoria ascending to the throne in 1837 and extended until 1900 was marked by significant developments, both in terms of progress and unrest. This era, which began around 1830, witnessed a departure from the romantic ideals that characterized the earlier period, earning the moniker, "The modern period of progress and unrest."

During this time, there was substantial advancement in both science and the arts. However, these strides in material and intellectual pursuits were juxtaposed with a backdrop of social unrest. The romanticism that defined the previous age had waned, making way for a period that sought progress amid societal challenges.

One prominent figure of the Romantic era, William Wordsworth, found himself grappling with the profound loss of fellow poets. The deaths of his contemporaries left him as the lone survivor among the once vibrant group of romantic poets. In expressing his grief, Wordsworth penned poignant lines that reflect not only personal sorrow but also a broader lamentation for the passing of an era:

"How fast has brother followed brother,

From sunshine to the sunless land!"

These lines capture the somber reality of the time, where the interconnectedness and camaraderie among the Romantic poets were disrupted by the inexorable march of mortality. The sorrow expressed by Wordsworth is not solely confined to personal loss; it also resonates with the broader "Prosaic" element of the age. In simpler terms, this period was characterized by a shift toward a more practical, realistic, and prosaic outlook. The romantic idealism that had once flourished gave way to a focus on material development, along with a desire for societal peace and the cultivation of moral instincts.

The term "Prosaic" here encapsulates the transition from the poetic and imaginative fervor of the Romantic age to a more pragmatic and realistic approach. The optimism of progress coexisted with the challenges of societal unrest, reflecting the complex tapestry of an era undergoing significant transformations. It was a time when the pursuit of material advancements was intricately interwoven with a yearning for moral stability, creating a nuanced landscape of progress and unrest.

Alfred Lord Tennyson: A Life Woven in Verse

Alfred Tennyson, one of twelve children born to the lovely couple Tennyson and Elizabeth, left an indelible mark on Victorian poetry. His mother, described as a pretty and sweet-natured lady, became a source of inspiration, culminating in a touching tribute in the concluding part of his poem 'Princess' (Tennyson).

At the tender age of twelve, Tennyson was sent to his grandmother's house for schooling, an experience marred by unpleasant encounters with fellow students and the school environment. Quickly retreating from this less-than-ideal situation, he embarked on his university journey. At the university, he earned favor among students for his poetic talents, a success marked by the popularity of his poem, "Poem by two Brothers" (Tennyson).

The turning point in Tennyson's life came in 1850, following the death of the renowned poet William Wordsworth. Tennyson ascended to the prestigious position of poet laureate, signaling a new chapter in his life. Despite thirteen years of love for Elizabeth, poverty had prevented their union. However, with the newfound status of poet laureate, Tennyson overcame financial constraints, marrying Elizabeth. In celebration of this union, he penned a heartfelt poem dedicated to his wife:

"Her, whose gentle will has changed my fate, And made my life perfumed altar flame" (Tennyson).

This poetic expression not only conveyed Tennyson's deep affection but also marked a period of contentment in his life, coinciding with his role as the official poet of the nation.

"After the Romantic era, the flame of romance in literature flickered out with the passing of great poets like Wordsworth, Byron, Keats, Shelley, and Coleridge. The Victorian age leaned more towards prose than poetry, featuring only two prominent poets, Robert Browning and Alfred Tennyson. If we dive into Tennyson's poetry, we discover a blend of romantic qualities: the sweet melody akin to Keats, the fanciful imagination reminiscent of Coleridge, the creative fantasy akin to Scott and Shelley, and the straightforward simplicity echoing Wordsworth.

Tennyson's works continue to be hailed as the finest creations of the Victorian era."

"At the age of eighty-one, Tennyson penned a poignant poem, urging us to look beyond the limits, to follow the gleam, symbolizing his life's struggles and quest for something more:

'Over the margin,

After it, follow it,

Follow the gleam’

Another notable work, 'Maud,' tells a tale of murder and recovery, holding a special place in Tennyson's heart. One of its most famous lines resonates with readers: "Come into the garden, Maud" Tennyson's poetic canvas beautifully unfolds with lines like "Come into the garden, Maud," inviting readers into a metaphorical garden of emotions. His portrayal of women is a recurring theme, evident in poems like "Mariana," where the theme of 'Tragic death' looms large as the protagonist yearns, "I would that, I were dead"

In "The Lady of Shallot," Tennyson paints a vivid picture of a woman cursed and imprisoned in a tower, casting her as pure and divine, reminiscent of an Anglo-Saxon woman. The motif of 'imprisoned women' echoes in his poetry. In "Princess, a medley,Tennyson delves into questions about a woman's sphere and rights, providing thought-provoking answers.

The quoted lines "He put our lives so far apart We cannot hear each other speak" are from Alfred Lord Tennyson's poem "In Memoriam A.H.H.," specifically from Canto 82. The poem is a lengthy elegy written in memory of Tennyson's friend, Arthur Henry Hallam.

Tennyson's poetry bears the fingerprints of scientific fascination, reflecting his keen interest in the imaginative and technological advancements of the Victorian era. In a nod to the scientific revolutions of his time, including Darwin's theories on the origin of species and geological discoveries, Tennyson weaves scientific themes into his verses. For instance, in "The Lotus Eater," he presents an array of different flowers, showcasing his admiration for the wonders of the natural world. Meanwhile, in the significant poem "Crossing the Bar," Tennyson expresses the hope to meet his pilot face to face in the afterlife, displaying a blend of spiritual and scientific sentiments

As the poet laureate, Tennyson felt a responsibility to capture the essence of London and his country in his poetry. In "The Charge of the Light Brigade," he vividly portrays the war and the sacrifices made by soldiers, providing a poignant commentary on the societal context of the time. Tennyson's connection with ancient worlds is evident in "Idyll of the King," where he idealizes Greece and Rome, presenting King Arthur as the epitome of a perfect king.

However, the pinnacle of Tennyson's contribution to the Victorian age is arguably "In Memoriam," a masterpiece where he pays homage to his friend Hallam, who passed away at the tender age of twenty-two. Lines like "One of the few immortal names, Who did not born to die" reflect Tennyson's deep grief and the enduring nature of human memory. The famous line "Tis better to have loved and lost, Than never to have loved at all" is often misconstrued as a sentiment of lost love, but it is, in fact, a dedication from Tennyson to Hallam, encapsulating the theme of love's connection to human immortality

Conclusion:

The Victorian era, under Queen Victoria's reign, witnessed a significant departure from romantic ideals toward a more pragmatic worldview. This shift is eloquently reflected in the poignant poetry of William Wordsworth and Alfred Lord Tennyson, who grappled with personal losses and societal upheavals. Tennyson's verses, woven with themes of love, tragedy, and a keen interest in scientific progress, encapsulate the complexities of the era. As the flame of romanticism dimmed in literature, Tennyson's enduring works emerged as a testament to this transformative period.

His life, intricately entwined with verse, serves as a rich tapestry depicting the multifaceted aspects of Victorian society. Themes of societal commentary, the pursuit of love, and a fascination with scientific advancements underscore Tennyson's contributions. His enduring creations stand as a reflection of the intricate balance between optimism and challenges that defined the Victorian age. Through the exploration of these poetic voices, we gain valuable insights into the nuanced dynamics that shaped this era and the delicate interplay of progress and unrest during a time of profound societal transformation.

Words- 1731

Images - 1

References :

“Alfred, Lord Tennyson .” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., 10 Oct. 2023, www.britannica.com/biography/Alfred-Lord-Tennyson.

“Alfred, Lord Tennyson: Quotes.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, inc., www.britannica.com/quotes/Alfred-Lord-Tennyson.Accessed 24 Nov. 2023.

Oxford University Press. "Wordsworth, William." Oxford Dictionary of National Biography, Oxford University Press, n.d., https://www.oxforddnb.com/display/10.1093/ref:odnb/9780198614128.001.0001/odnb-9780198614128-e-36652.

Peterson, Linda H. “Tennyson and the Ladies.” Victorian Poetry, vol. 47, no. 1, 2009, pp. 25–43. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/40347424. Accessed 24 Nov. 2023.

Peterson, Linda H. “Tennyson and the Ladies.” Victorian Poetry, vol. 47, no. 1, 2009, pp. 25–43. JSTOR,https://www.jstor.org/stable/40347424 Accessed 24 Nov. 2023.

Alfred, L. T. (n.d.). Ulysses by Alfred, lord tennyson. Poetry Foundation. https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45392/ulysses

Alfred, Lord Tennyson. “The Charge of the Light Brigade by Alfred, Lord...” Poetry Foundation, Poetry Foundation,

www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45319/the-charge-of-the-light-brigade.Accessed 24 Nov. 2023.

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