Balder Dead Poem Analysis
Mourning a God: Analyzing "Balder Dead"Introduction
"Balder Dead" is a narrative poem written by the esteemed British poet, Matthew Arnold. Published in 1855, the poem is an adaptation of a Norse myth recounting the death and mourning of the beloved god Balder. In this article, we will explore the poem's structure, themes, and imagery, shedding light on Arnold's exploration of loss, grief, and the quest for understanding in the face of tragedy.
Structure and Form
"Balder Dead" is written in blank verse, consisting of unrhymed iambic pentameter lines. This form lends the poem a stately, dignified tone befitting the epic nature of its subject matter. The poem is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different aspect of the story: the events leading to Balder's death, the gods' attempts to resurrect him, and the final