Compare and contrast The Charge of the Light Brigade withThe Defence of Lucknow by Alfred Lord Tennyson - What contrasting attitudes do they convey? How does he do this?

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COMPARE AND CONTRAST “THE CHARGE OF THE LIGHT BRIGADE” WITH “THE DEFENCE OF LUCKNOW” BY ALFRED LORD TENNYSON. WHAT CONTRASTING ATTITUDES AMD FEELINGS DOES HE CONVEY? HOW DOES HE DO THIS?

Alfred Lord Tennyson wrote both poems, “THE DEFENCE OF LUCKNOW” and “THE CHARGE OF THE LIGHT BRIGADE”. He had written these poems during the 19th century. These poems were based upon two battles, which took place during the 19th century, involving the English.

Tennyson had written these poems from first hand experienced reports. He had written these reports, as he wanted the British to be known for their bravery and nobility.

“THE CHARGE OF THE LIGHT BRIGADE” was a poem based on the Crimean war, which took place between 1854- 1856. This battle was between the English and French being on one side, whilst they fought the Russians. The English and French feared that Russia might spread its power southwards, as the Turkish Empire collapsed. During this battle, “THE CHARGE OF THE LIGHT BRIGADE” took place. The British cavalry commander, who mistook his orders, led this charge. The poem describes what happened and distinguish to the reader how the British fought.

“THE DEFENCE OF LUCKNOW” was based upon a famous episode during the Indian Mutiny. This battle took place in 1857, between 1700 English men and 6000 trained rebel soldiers and a very large number of irregulars. Lawrence was leading of the 1700 men until he died at the opening of the siege.

This poem was created by Tennyson in order to let people know, how brave the British were during this battle. Tennyson wants to let people know how well the English fought, in order to let people give sympathy and empathy for the British.

I will be comparing and contrasting these two poems, as well as including the attitudes and themes of both poems.

In the poem “THE CHARGE OF THE LIGHT BRIGADE” it can be distinguished that Tennyson, indicates the British are real brave throughout the poem. One example of this is:

‘Half a league, half a league

Join now!

Half a league onward,

All in the valley of death

Rode the six hundred’

                           (Stanza one - THE CHARGE OF THE LIGHT BRIGADE)

Rhythm has been used in the above verses. This is in order to stress the words, to give a deeper meaning. It tells the reader in these verses that the English are very calm and brave. It also shows their nobility and superiority. Calmness and bravery can be seen by the word ‘rode’. It denotes that they are really calmly travelling to somewhere ...

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