Alfred Lord Tennyson

Definition

Alfred Lord Tennyson was a prominent British poet who served as Poet Laureate during much of Queen Victoria's reign. His works often reflect themes of medievalism, exploring chivalry, honor, and the complexities of human emotion. Tennyson's poetry drew inspiration from medieval legends, particularly the Arthurian tales, merging them with the Romantic ideals of his time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tennyson is best known for poems such as 'The Lady of Shalott' and 'Idylls of the King', which showcase his fascination with medieval themes.
2. His appointment as Poet Laureate in 1850 marked him as a key literary figure in Victorian society, influencing public opinion through his works.
3. Tennyson's poetry often reflects a tension between faith and doubt, capturing the anxieties of the Victorian era regarding science and religion.
4. He was deeply influenced by the works of earlier poets like John Milton and Lord Byron, incorporating their styles into his own writings.
5. Tennyson's exploration of grief and loss is notably present in 'In Memoriam A.H.H.', a tribute to his close friend Arthur Hallam, reflecting personal and universal themes.

Review Questions

• How did Alfred Lord Tennyson's works reflect the characteristics of medievalism in literature?
  • Tennyson's works embody medievalism through their focus on chivalric ideals, romanticized depictions of knights and noble quests, and exploration of timeless themes such as love and honor. His poems often draw on Arthurian legends, blending historical narratives with emotional depth. This blend showcases how Tennyson reinvigorated medieval stories for a Victorian audience, emphasizing moral complexities that resonated with contemporary readers.
• Analyze the impact of Tennyson's role as Poet Laureate on his poetry and its reception during the Victorian era.
  • As Poet Laureate, Tennyson wielded considerable influence over public discourse through poetry that addressed national events and sentiments. His position allowed him to articulate the collective emotions of society during times of change, such as war and mourning. The prominence he gained through this role contributed to the widespread acclaim of his works, establishing him as a voice that captured the spirit of the Victorian age while also promoting themes consistent with medieval values.
• Evaluate how Tennyson's exploration of personal grief in 'In Memoriam A.H.H.' reflects broader societal issues in the Victorian era.
  • In 'In Memoriam A.H.H.', Tennyson addresses personal loss while intertwining it with broader societal challenges faced during the Victorian era, such as shifting beliefs about religion and mortality. The poem encapsulates his struggle with faith amidst grief, resonating with a public grappling with similar anxieties due to scientific advancements that questioned traditional beliefs. This connection elevates Tennyson's work beyond personal tragedy, positioning it as a commentary on the emotional turmoil experienced by many in an era marked by rapid change.

Related terms

Medievalism: The revival and reinterpretation of medieval themes, styles, and subjects in later literature and art, particularly during the Romantic and Victorian periods.

Arthurian Legends:

A collection of stories centered around the legendary King Arthur, his knights, and the quests they undertook, often emphasizing themes of bravery, loyalty, and romance.

Victorian Poetry: A genre of poetry that emerged during the Victorian era, characterized by its focus on morality, emotion, and a deep exploration of human experience.