Welcome to Poem of the Day – On Shakespeare. 1630 by John Milton.
John Milton’s “On Shakespeare. 1630” is a brief yet profound tribute to William Shakespeare’s literary genius. Written as a 16-line epitaph, the poem is an homage to Shakespeare’s enduring impact on literature and his unique ability to capture human nature in a way that surpasses time. Rather than focusing on traditional markers of honor like statues or monuments, Milton emphasizes that Shakespeare’s words themselves serve as an eternal monument, immortalizing his legacy.
On Shakespeare. 1630 Poem
What needs my Shakespeare for his honoured bones,
The labor of an age in pilèd stones,
Or that his hallowed relics should be hid
Under a star-ypointing pyramid?
Dear son of Memory, great heir of fame,
What need’st thou such weak witness of thy name?
Thou in our wonder and astonishment
Hast built thyself a live-long monument.
For whilst to th’ shame of slow-endeavouring art,
Thy easy numbers flow, and that each heart
Hath from the leaves of thy unvalued book
Those Delphic lines with deep impression took,
Then thou, our fancy of itself bereaving,
Dost make us marble with too much conceiving;
And so sepúlchred in such pomp dost lie,
That kings for such a tomb would wish to die.
On Shakespeare. 1630 Poem Explanation
Milton opens the poem by addressing the idea of building a “pyramid” or elaborate monument in honor of Shakespeare, only to dismiss it, suggesting that Shakespeare’s own work serves as a monument far grander than any physical structure. Milton reflects on the idea that Shakespeare’s words evoke such vivid emotions that readers are transported beyond the limits of physical monuments, into the realms of imagination and empathy. He describes Shakespeare’s effect on readers as “powerful,” as if his poetry allows them to feel all the passions of life—joy, sorrow, fear, and wonder—without needing any physical relic.
Structure and Form
Form: The poem is a short epitaph in heroic couplets, which is a common form used in English poetry to convey admiration and solemn reflection. Each pair of lines rhymes, lending the poem a balanced, harmonious quality fitting for a tribute.
Rhyme Scheme: The poem follows a strict AABBCC… rhyme scheme, with each two lines forming a distinct unit, making each idea feel concise and self-contained.
Meter: It is written in iambic pentameter, which gives it a formal, rhythmic flow, echoing the dignified tone of Milton’s praise.
Detailed Explanation of Major Elements
Imagery and Symbolism:
Monument Imagery: Milton begins with an image of a physical “pyramid” or “storied urn” to symbolize traditional forms of honor. However, he quickly turns away from these images, claiming that Shakespeare’s verses themselves are an “unvalued book” that surpasses such physical tributes. This choice of imagery highlights how Milton views Shakespeare’s writing as a living, timeless monument.
“Livelong Monument”: Milton introduces the idea that Shakespeare’s writing lives on as a “monument,” which creates an eternal presence that outlasts the limitations of stone and marble. Shakespeare’s words have the power to evoke such strong emotions in readers that they “dwell” in the experience, rendering any physical tribute unnecessary.
Tone and Language:
Tone: The tone of the poem is reverent and contemplative, fitting for an elegy or epitaph. Milton’s language is both respectful and admiring, emphasizing Shakespeare’s greatness without over-embellishment.
Language: Milton uses elevated diction, with terms like “sonnets,” “relics,” and “honored bones,” to create a sense of solemnity and timelessness. His choice of words highlights the enduring quality of Shakespeare’s legacy and underscores Milton’s respect for his literary predecessor.
Themes:
Immortality of Art: Milton’s central theme is the notion that true art transcends time and space. Rather than needing physical monuments, Shakespeare’s writing alone serves as his legacy, achieving an immortality that physical structures cannot.
The Power of Language: Milton underscores the idea that Shakespeare’s words have a profound effect on readers, drawing them into emotional landscapes that feel as real as life itself. He suggests that language, in the hands of a true master, can capture the essence of human experience in ways that transcend physical boundaries.
Admiration and Legacy: The poem reflects Milton’s admiration for Shakespeare, recognizing his ability to create works that move readers across generations. Milton acknowledges Shakespeare’s unparalleled skill in encapsulating the human condition, ensuring that his legacy will endure as long as people continue to read.
Literary Devices:
Irony: Milton employs irony by mentioning grand monuments only to dismiss their necessity for honoring Shakespeare. This subtle irony adds depth to his praise, as he suggests that anything physical would only undermine the grandeur of Shakespeare’s words.
Hyperbole: Milton’s description of Shakespeare’s work as a “living monument” is slightly exaggerated but effectively conveys the poem’s main idea—that Shakespeare’s writing alone is enough to immortalize him.
Personification: Milton personifies Shakespeare’s work, suggesting that it has a life and influence of its own, which continues to “breathe” and move readers beyond the grave.
Conclusion
“On Shakespeare. 1630” is a powerful yet concise tribute to Shakespeare’s literary genius, reflecting John Milton’s admiration and deep respect. Through carefully chosen language and literary devices, Milton emphasizes that Shakespeare’s works transcend time and physical monuments, establishing a legacy that lives on in the minds and hearts of readers. By positioning Shakespeare’s words as a “living monument,” Milton celebrates the poet’s unique ability to capture and immortalize the human experience, ensuring that his legacy endures forever.
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