Analysis of the Poem "Ozymandias" by Percy Shelley

Introduction

• "Ozymandias" is a complex and clever poem by Percy Shelley.
• Shelley was part of the Romantic poets, born in 1792.
• He lived an interesting life: expelled from Oxford for atheism, married Mary Shelley, and drowned at sea at 29.
• He wasn't successful during his lifetime but is now considered one of the finest poets.

Historical Context

• Shelley wrote the poem during the reign of King George III, who was involved in many military conflicts.
• Shelley disliked oppressive monarchical government and was a pacifist.
• King George III is often considered an inspiration for "Ozymandias."

Romanticism

• Shelley was part of the second generation of Romantic poets.
• Romantic poetry characteristics:
  • Dislike of urban life, preference for nature.
  • Love of the supernatural.
  • Use of ordinary language.
• Second-generation Romantic poets focused on foreign lands and past settings, as seen in "Ozymandias."
• They often wrote against religion and political control.

Context of the Poem

• The poem refers to Ramesses II (Ozymandias), an Egyptian pharaoh known for military expansion.
• The poem was part of a sonnet writing competition between Shelley and Horace Smith.
• Inspired by the British Museum's acquisition of a statue of Ramesses II.

Literal Meaning of the Poem

• The speaker narrates meeting a traveler from an ancient land who describes a broken statue in the desert.
• The statue’s pedestal reads: "My name is Ozymandias, King of Kings..." amidst nothingness.

Themes

• Power is believed to be supreme and invincible, but it is not eternal.
• The poem critiques the delusions of powerful leaders and possibly Christianity.
• Art and nature outlast human power.

Structure and Form

• "Ozymandias" is a sonnet, traditionally a form of love poetry.
• Combines Petrarchan and Shakespearean sonnet forms with a unique rhyme scheme.
• The evolving form of the sonnet reflects the theme that power and forms are transient.

Language

• Title "Ozymandias" implies breath and rule.
• Negative language and thinly veiled criticism suggest an attack on power.
• Use of alliteration ("cold command") emphasizes harshness.

Irony and Religious Critique

• The irony of Ozymandias’s belief in lasting power vs. the crumbling statue.
• Possible symbolism of artist's skill outliving political power.
• Religious references to "King of Kings," a title for Jesus, suggest a critique of religious power.

Conclusion

• The poem allows for multiple interpretations, either a critique of specific figures like King George III, Jesus, or a broader critique of power.
• Encourages readers to reflect on the transient nature of power and the lasting impact of art.