Power and conflict - Ozymandias

• Who is the author of the poem "Ozymandias"?

  Percy Shelley
• What does the traveler in "Ozymandias" describe seeing in the desert?

  A statue with two huge stone legs and a shattered head
• What is the significance of the engraving at the foot of the statue in "Ozymandias"?

  It emphasizes the arrogance and delusion of power of Ozymandias
• What does the phrase "look on my works, ye mighty, and despair" suggest about Ozymandias's view of power?

  It suggests he believed his power was supreme and everlasting
• How does the state of the statue reflect the theme of transitory power in "Ozymandias"?

  The crumbled and broken statue symbolizes the impermanence of power
• Which poetic movement is Percy Shelley associated with?

  Romantic poetry
• What is a key characteristic of Romantic poetry as it relates to "Ozymandias"?

  Dislike of imposed control by those in power
• Who was the king during the time "Ozymandias" was written?

  King George III
• What themes does Shelley criticize in "Ozymandias"?

  Monarchy and organized religion
• How does the structure of "Ozymandias" reflect its themes?

  The sonnet form highlights the delusion of power and its transitory nature
• What are the two main forms of sonnets discussed in relation to "Ozymandias"?

  • Petrarchan sonnet
  • Shakespearean sonnet
• How does "Ozymandias" deviate from traditional sonnet forms?

  It combines elements of both Petrarchan and Shakespearean sonnets
• What does the rhyme scheme of "Ozymandias" indicate about its structure?

  It reflects the changing nature of power
• What biblical reference is made in "Ozymandias" and what does it imply?

  The title "king of kings" implies a god-like self-perception of Ozymandias
• How does Shelley use alliteration in "Ozymandias" to convey tone?

  Alliteration creates an aggressive and harsh tone
• What is the overarching message of "Ozymandias" regarding human power?

  Human power is transitory and does not last forever
• Which poems are suggested for comparison with "Ozymandias" regarding themes of power?

  • Extract from the Prelude
  • My Last Duchess
  • Kamikaze
  • Tissue
• What is the format of Mr. Bruff's guide mentioned in the analysis?


  Available exclusively in ebook form
• What is the purpose of the video analysis mentioned at the end of the study material?

  To provide a more detailed exploration of the poem
• What does the narrator of "Ozymandias" encounter in the desert?

  A traveler who describes the statue
• What does the traveler notice about the statue's head?

  It has a nasty arrogant look despite being shattered
• How does the poem "Ozymandias" serve as a warning to those in power?


  It illustrates that their power is not permanent and will eventually fade