Sec 1 Literature - Poetry Close Reading - Raag Sudha | Library

Instructions

This lesson helps students learn how to read a poem closely and examine the poet’s use of words and images in order to lead them to a holistic understanding of the themes in the poem. It makes close reference to a poem by Alfred Lord Tennyson, "The Eagle".

1

Why does the writer describe the eagle as being “close to the sun” (line 2)? Select all that apply.

1

How does the writer demonstrate that the eagle is very comfortable in the setting of the poem? Select all that apply.

1

Identify the simile in the poem

1

Identify the personification in the poem

6

He clasps the crag with crooked hands
Close to the sun in lonely lands
Ring'd with the azure world he stands
The wrinkled sea beneath him crawls
He watches from his mountain walls

As we study English literature, it is important to learn how to read poems closely. By examining the poet’s use of words and images, we can unlock the deeper meanings and themes in a poem.

For example, let us consider the poem "The Eagle" by Alfred Lord Tennyson. 

As we continue to read and study other poems in English literature, let us remember to read closely and examine every word and image. Only then can we truly understand the themes and deeper meanings within a poem.

1

The first three lines describe the eagle's majestic perch on a __________, high above the world. The poet uses the image of the eagle's __________ to suggest both strength and vulnerability.

2

Next, the poet describes the eagle's view of the world below. The _____________________ represents the chaos of life, and the eagle stands apart from it on his ___________________ . The poet uses the image of the eagle watching from        to suggest a sense of detachment and aloofness.

Classify the tone and mood words used by Tennyson into groups.

awe, admiration
loneliness, power

Tone
Mood