Alfred Lord Tennyson's The Charge of the Light Brigade is a poem commemorating the bravery of British soldiers during the Crimean War. It recounts how the Light Brigade followed a flawed command, charging into their death. Themes of honour, duty and sacrifice highlight the soldiers' unwavering courage. Whilst acknowledging the tragic loss, the poem ultimately celebrates the soldiers' heroism and loyalty.
Honour - a 'good name' or public admiration
Patriotism - love or devotion for one's country
Sabre - cavalry sword with a curved blade, thick back, and guard
Blunder - to make a mistake through stupidity, ignorance or carelessness
Cavalry - an army component mounted on horseback
Alfred Lord Tennyson examines the concept of chivalry and self sacrifice through his depiction of the Light Brigade's 'glory', subservience and loyalty in the Crimean War and as a by-produce romanticises, glamourises and enthrones war.
The use of the word 'blundered' is pertinent as it mirrors an editorial in the Times from 1854. He is appalled at the loss of life as a result of human error. Tennyson is not impressed with the higher authority yet avoids directly blaming one person.
This is a biblical allusion from psalm 23, suggesting horror and segregation from god. It is a reference to the stoical bravery of the soldiers - they knew they were going to die, but do not fear it and fulfil their patriotic duty.
The usage of anaphora emphasises the impossible odds that these men are fighting against. A cannon has destructive potential. The men are being herded by the enemy and are likely to die wherever they go.
This biblical allusion suggests these soldiers are completely consumed by the hellish realities of war. Fate and the fact that their deaths are inevitable become strikingly clear. Blunder is closing around them and they cannot escape it.
A tragic image portrays this unified force as broken and fragile. It shows the unwavering and resolute manner in which the men complete their orders. A poignant tribute to those who had no choice but to ride to their deaths.
This quote uses imperatives. The poem never differentiates between those who did and did not survive. They are united in their patriotism and duty and should be respected and acknowledged.
Together with the use of dactylic dimeter, in which the heavy stress falls on monosyllabic words, auditory imagery and momentum of cavalry charge is created.
A shift in structure reflects their desperate attempt to retreat. We are reminded of the soldiers' heroism.