Charge of the light brigade

Cards (59)

  • Who wrote the poem "The Charge of the Light Brigade"?
    Alfred Lord Tennyson
  • What was the initial impression of the speaker about the poem?
    It seemed simple and just praised bravery
  • Why is it important to offer alternative interpretations in an exam?
    To access higher grades and demonstrate depth
  • What does the speaker suggest about the poet's presence in understanding the poem?
    We don't know if our interpretations are correct
  • How many hours of study did the speaker put into the poem?
    10 or 12 hours
  • What does the speaker recommend for further study of the poem?
    To watch the video and read the ebook
  • When was Alfred Lord Tennyson born and when did he die?
    Born in 1809, died in 1892
  • Why is Tennyson considered the quintessential Victorian poet?
    He lived and died during Victoria's reign
  • What was Tennyson's financial situation early in his career?
    He often suffered with poverty
  • What significant event affected Tennyson's engagement to Emily?
    Her father forbade the marriage due to poverty
  • What role was Tennyson appointed to in 1850?
    Poet Laureate
  • What was expected of the poet laureate during Tennyson's time?
    To write verse on national significance
  • How did critics view Tennyson's poetry after he became poet laureate?
    They said he wrote uninspired verse afterwards
  • What years did the Crimean War take place?
    1853 to 1856
  • Why did Britain join the Crimean War?
    Fear of Russian expansion threatening trade
  • How was the Crimean War perceived by the British public?
    It was unpopular with public skepticism
  • What battle does the poem focus on?
    The Battle of Balaclava
  • What was the Light Brigade ordered to do during the battle?
    To protect heavy guns from the Russians
  • What social class were the cavalry soldiers of the Light Brigade from?
    They were from the upper class
  • What was the stated aim of the Light Brigade?
    To work as reconnaissance and mop up
  • Who were the three leaders at the Battle of Balaclava?
    Lord Raglan, Lord Cardigan, Lord Lucan
  • What mistake occurred during the Light Brigade's charge?
    They charged at the wrong enemy position
  • What was the outcome of the Light Brigade's charge?
    They suffered heavy casualties and were defeated
  • What was significant about war reporting during the Crimean War?
    It marked the birth of war reporting
  • How did Tennyson react to the newspaper report about the charge?
    He was struck by the phrase "hideous blunder"
  • What dual interpretation can be made about the poem's message?
    It praises bravery but criticizes leadership blunders
  • What was Tennyson's motivation for writing the poem?
    To lift public spirits and honor soldiers
  • What form does "The Charge of the Light Brigade" take?
    It is a ballad
  • What is a refrain in poetry?
    A repeated line throughout the poem
  • Why is the ballad form significant for storytelling?
    It helps pass on important stories through generations
  • What are the key themes in "The Charge of the Light Brigade"?
    • Bravery and honor of soldiers
    • Criticism of upper-class leadership
    • The futility of war
    • Blind obedience to authority
  • What are the structural elements of "The Charge of the Light Brigade"?
    • Ballad form with storytelling
    • Use of refrain "600"
    • Six verses representing 600 soldiers
    • Military imagery and language
  • How can one analyze the language used in the poem?
    • Examine word choice and connotations
    • Look for imagery and symbolism
    • Analyze tone and mood
    • Consider the impact of repetition
  • What is the significance of the historical context in the poem?
    • Reflects public sentiment about the Crimean War
    • Highlights the consequences of leadership mistakes
    • Provides insight into Victorian attitudes towards war
  • How does Tennyson's background influence the poem?
    • Personal experiences with poverty and class
    • Critique of upper-class privilege
    • Reflection of Victorian values and beliefs
  • What is the main theme of the poem discussed?
    Honoring the bravery of the 600 soldiers
  • What does the poem suggest about the importance of the 600 soldiers?
    They should be honored and remembered
  • What is a ballad?
    A poem that tells a story with a refrain
  • What is the refrain in "The Charge of the Light Brigade"?
    The repeated mention of 600
  • Why is the ballad form significant for storytelling?
    It helps pass stories to future generations