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📖british literature ii review

Poet laureate

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

A poet laureate is an officially appointed poet who serves as a representative of a specific community or nation, often tasked with composing poems for special occasions or events. This role has historical significance and connects to cultural identity and national pride, often bringing attention to social issues through poetry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The role of poet laureate dates back to ancient Greece and Rome, but the modern position gained prominence in England with the appointment of Ben Jonson in 1616.
  2. Tennyson served as the Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1850 until his death in 1892, using his platform to address contemporary issues such as war and social change.
  3. Poets laureate are often expected to produce works that resonate with the public and reflect national sentiments, making poetry more accessible to a wider audience.
  4. The position can vary significantly across different countries in terms of responsibilities and the selection process, ranging from government appointments to public voting.
  5. Contemporary poet laureates may engage in outreach activities, including workshops and public readings, to promote poetry and inspire new generations of writers.

Review Questions

  • How does the role of poet laureate enhance the relationship between poetry and national identity?
    • The role of poet laureate enhances the relationship between poetry and national identity by providing a figure who represents the cultural and emotional voice of a nation. Through their work, poets laureate address significant social and political issues that resonate with the public, reinforcing a sense of shared experience. This connection fosters pride in cultural heritage while also encouraging dialogue about contemporary challenges faced by society.
  • Discuss how Tennyson’s tenure as poet laureate influenced his narrative and lyric poetry during significant historical events.
    • Tennyson's tenure as poet laureate greatly influenced his narrative and lyric poetry, particularly during events such as the Crimean War. His poems often reflected the national sentiment surrounding these events, allowing him to respond to the collective emotions of grief, valor, and hope. Works like 'The Charge of the Light Brigade' not only showcased his lyrical prowess but also served to commemorate those who fought, thereby weaving personal reflection with national history.
  • Evaluate the impact of poet laureateship on contemporary poetry and its relevance in addressing modern societal issues.
    • The impact of poet laureateship on contemporary poetry is significant as it helps bridge the gap between art and social engagement. Modern poet laureates utilize their platform to address pressing societal issues such as inequality, climate change, and political strife. By connecting their poetry with current events and public discourse, they elevate the importance of literary expression in fostering understanding and prompting action among diverse audiences, thereby ensuring that poetry remains a relevant form of commentary in today's world.