Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Border Ballad [or March, or Song]" is a poem by Sir Walter Scott, originally published as part of his novel, "The Monastery," in 1820. Sir Walter Scott was a Scottish novelist, poet, and historian who lived from 1771-1832. He was one of the most popular and influential writers of his time, and his works helped to popularize Scottish culture and history.

Context:

The Border Ballads were a genre of poetry that emerged in the Scottish-English border region during the Middle Ages. They were typically sung or recited orally, and often dealt with themes of war, love, and betrayal. The border region was a place of constant conflict during this time, with Scottish and English forces raiding and counter-raiding each other's territories. The Border Ballads were a way for people to express their experiences and emotions in the face of this ongoing conflict.

Content:

"Border Ballad [or March, or Song]" is a poem that tells the story of a young Scottish woman named Ellen, who is caught in the middle of the conflict between the Scottish and English forces. Ellen is in love with a young Scottish man named Malcolm, who has gone off to fight in the border wars. One day, Ellen hears that Malcolm has been captured by the English and is being held prisoner in a castle.

Ellen decides to take matters into her own hands and sets out to rescue Malcolm. She disguises herself as a minstrel and gains entrance to the castle where Malcolm is being held. She sings a beautiful song that captures the attention of the English soldiers, and is able to make her way to Malcolm's cell. She frees him and the two of them make their escape.

Form:

"Border Ballad [or March, or Song]" is a poem that consists of eight stanzas, each containing six lines. The rhyme scheme is ABABCC, with a consistent iambic tetrameter meter throughout the poem. The use of consistent meter and rhyme scheme helps to give the poem a sense of structure and formality, while the use of six-line stanzas allows for a more narrative and storytelling style.

Poetic Elements:

Scott makes use of a variety of poetic techniques and devices throughout the poem to convey the emotions and experiences of Ellen and Malcolm. There is heavy use of imagery, particularly in the descriptions of the castle and the surrounding countryside. Scott also makes use of symbolism, with Ellen's disguise as a minstrel representing her bravery and resourcefulness.

Summary:

Overall, "Border Ballad [or March, or Song]" is a stirring and romantic poem that captures the spirit of the Border Ballads. Scott's use of vivid imagery and poetic language makes the poem a compelling and engaging tribute to the bravery and resourcefulness of the Scottish people during this time of conflict. The poem's structure and use of poetic techniques also contribute to its impact and effectiveness. As a literary work, "Border Ballad [or March, or Song]" is an important reflection of Scottish culture and history, and remains relevant and meaningful to contemporary readers.

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