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Bella Findlay
07/07/2022
English Lang.
How does Shelley explore the power of humans in his poem Ozymandias?
365
•
7 Jul 2022
•
How is Power Presented in Ozymandias? - Simple Analysis for Kids
Bella Findlay
@bellafindlay_uk
The Irony of Power and Legacy
Continuing from the previous page, Shelley's 'Ozymandias' further develops its themes through structural elements and powerful imagery.
The volta, marked by the phrase "On the pedestal these words appear:", serves as a pivotal point in the poem:
Definition: A volta is a turn or shift in the poem's tone or argument.
This structural device emphasizes the contrast between Ozymandias' grand claims and the reality of his fallen empire:
Quote: "My name is Ozymandias, king of kings: / Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!"
Analysis: These lines, inscribed on the pedestal, reveal Ozymandias' hubris and the irony of his lasting legacy.
Shelley uses vivid imagery to depict the desolate landscape surrounding the ruined statue:
Quote: "Nothing beside remains. Round the decay / Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare / The lone and level sands stretch far away."
This description serves multiple purposes:
- It contrasts sharply with Ozymandias' boastful claims.
- It emphasizes the power of nature and time over human achievements.
- It symbolizes the ultimate futility of earthly power and ambition.
The poem's final lines leave readers with a powerful message about the transience of human power and the enduring nature of art:
Highlight: While Ozymandias' empire has crumbled, the artist's depiction of his "passions" has survived, preserving a critique of the pharaoh's rule.
'Ozymandias' serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of humility. It reminds us that even the mightiest empires are subject to the ravages of time, while art and ideas can endure for centuries.
Exploring Power and Hubris in Ozymandias
Shelley's poem 'Ozymandias' delves into the complex themes of human power, arrogance, and the inevitable passage of time. The poem is inspired by a story about the Egyptian pharaoh Rameses II, using the imagery of a decaying statue to symbolize the transient nature of human authority.
The opening line, "antique land," sets the stage for a tale of bygone eras. This phrase carries dual significance:
Vocabulary: "Antique" in this context implies both age and value, suggesting the statue's historical importance.
The description of the statue's facial expression as a "sneer of cold command" vividly portrays Ozymandias' oppressive rule:
Quote: "sneer of cold command"
Analysis: This phrase encapsulates the pharaoh's cruel and dismissive attitude towards his subjects, highlighting the abuse of power.
Shelley explores the power dynamics between ruler and subjects through the statue's creation:
Highlight: The statue, likely built through slave labor, ironically becomes a testament to the people's ability to outlast their oppressor through art.
The poem's structure plays a crucial role in conveying its themes:
Example: The use of a volta (turn) in the poem marks a shift from description to revelation, emphasizing the irony of Ozymandias' boastful inscription.
Shelley's exploration of human power in 'Ozymandias' serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of earthly authority and the enduring power of art and nature.
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Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
How is Power Presented in Ozymandias? - Simple Analysis for Kids
Bella Findlay
@bellafindlay_uk
Ozymandias by Percy Bysshe Shelley explores the transient nature of human power and the enduring strength of art. The poem critiques the arrogance of rulers and the inevitable decay of their legacies.
Key points:
- The poem is based on... Show more
The Irony of Power and Legacy
Continuing from the previous page, Shelley's 'Ozymandias' further develops its themes through structural elements and powerful imagery.
The volta, marked by the phrase "On the pedestal these words appear:", serves as a pivotal point in the poem:
Definition: A volta is a turn or shift in the poem's tone or argument.
This structural device emphasizes the contrast between Ozymandias' grand claims and the reality of his fallen empire:
Quote: "My name is Ozymandias, king of kings: / Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!"
Analysis: These lines, inscribed on the pedestal, reveal Ozymandias' hubris and the irony of his lasting legacy.
Shelley uses vivid imagery to depict the desolate landscape surrounding the ruined statue:
Quote: "Nothing beside remains. Round the decay / Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare / The lone and level sands stretch far away."
This description serves multiple purposes:
- It contrasts sharply with Ozymandias' boastful claims.
- It emphasizes the power of nature and time over human achievements.
- It symbolizes the ultimate futility of earthly power and ambition.
The poem's final lines leave readers with a powerful message about the transience of human power and the enduring nature of art:
Highlight: While Ozymandias' empire has crumbled, the artist's depiction of his "passions" has survived, preserving a critique of the pharaoh's rule.
'Ozymandias' serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of humility. It reminds us that even the mightiest empires are subject to the ravages of time, while art and ideas can endure for centuries.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Exploring Power and Hubris in Ozymandias
Shelley's poem 'Ozymandias' delves into the complex themes of human power, arrogance, and the inevitable passage of time. The poem is inspired by a story about the Egyptian pharaoh Rameses II, using the imagery of a decaying statue to symbolize the transient nature of human authority.
The opening line, "antique land," sets the stage for a tale of bygone eras. This phrase carries dual significance:
Vocabulary: "Antique" in this context implies both age and value, suggesting the statue's historical importance.
The description of the statue's facial expression as a "sneer of cold command" vividly portrays Ozymandias' oppressive rule:
Quote: "sneer of cold command"
Analysis: This phrase encapsulates the pharaoh's cruel and dismissive attitude towards his subjects, highlighting the abuse of power.
Shelley explores the power dynamics between ruler and subjects through the statue's creation:
Highlight: The statue, likely built through slave labor, ironically becomes a testament to the people's ability to outlast their oppressor through art.
The poem's structure plays a crucial role in conveying its themes:
Example: The use of a volta (turn) in the poem marks a shift from description to revelation, emphasizing the irony of Ozymandias' boastful inscription.
Shelley's exploration of human power in 'Ozymandias' serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of earthly authority and the enduring power of art and nature.
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good
Thomas R
iOS user
Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.
Basil
Android user
This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.
Rohan U
Android user
I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.
Xander S
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now
Paul T
iOS user