The Skeleton in Armor Poem Analysis
Unearthing the Past: Analyzing Longfellow's "The Skeleton in Armor"Introduction
"The Skeleton in Armor" is a narrative poem written by the acclaimed American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, first published in 1841. Inspired by the discovery of an unusual skeleton in armor unearthed in Fall River, Massachusetts, the poem weaves a fantastical tale of a Viking warrior and his tragic love story. In this article, we will analyze the themes, structure, and literary devices employed in "The Skeleton in Armor" to better understand its place within American literature and its enduring appeal.
Thematic Exploration
"The Skeleton in Armor" delves into several themes that reflect Longfellow's fascination with history, legend, and the human condition:
Love and Tragedy
At the heart of the poem is a tale of love and tragedy, as the Viking warrior recounts his passionate romance with a beautiful maiden and the tragic events that ultimately lead to their deaths. This theme highlights the universal nature of love and loss, transcending time and cultural boundaries.
The Power of the Past
The poem explores the theme of the power of the past, as the discovery of the skeleton in armor serves as a catalyst for the Viking warrior's story. The poem emphasizes the enduring influence of history, both on an individual and a collective level, and the ways in which the past can continue to shape the present.
The Transience of Life
The poem also contemplates the transience of life and the inevitability of death. The skeletal remains of the once-proud Viking warrior serve as a stark reminder of the impermanence of life and the fleeting nature of earthly glory.
Structure and Form
"The Skeleton in Armor" is composed of 12 stanzas, each containing 8 lines. The poem follows a regular rhyme scheme of ABABCCDD, providing a sense of rhythm and musicality to the narrative. Longfellow's choice of a traditional ballad structure adds to the poem's sense of historical authenticity and storytelling charm.
Literary Devices
Longfellow employs several literary devices throughout "The Skeleton in Armor" to enhance the poem's themes and evoke an emotional response from the reader:
Imagery
Vivid imagery is a key element of Longfellow's poetic style, and "The Skeleton in Armor" is no exception. The poem abounds with rich, sensory descriptions of the Viking warrior's life, his love affair, and the dramatic events leading to his demise. This imagery serves to transport the reader to the world of the Viking warrior and heighten the emotional impact of his story.
Allusion
Throughout the poem, Longfellow incorporates allusions to Norse mythology and history, adding depth and context to the narrative. These allusions contribute to the poem's overall atmosphere of mystery and enchantment, while also reflecting Longfellow's interest in the exploration of different cultures and historical periods.
Symbolism
Browning uses symbolism to convey deeper meanings and reinforce the poem's themes. The skeleton in armor itself serves as a symbol of the transience of life and the enduring power of the past, while the Viking warrior's tale of love and tragedy represents the universal human experience.
Conclusion
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "The Skeleton in Armor" is a captivating exploration of love, tragedy, and the power of the past. Through its engaging narrative, vivid imagery, and skillful use of literary devices, the poem offers a window into a bygone era while simultaneously illuminating timeless themes that resonate with readers across generations. As we delve into the Viking warrior's tale, we are reminded of the enduring influence of history and the indelible mark left by those who have come before us.