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Year 10 - English

Analysing the poem 'Extract from The Prelude'

'Power and Conflict'

Unit Summary

In this unit, pupis explore 12 of the 15 poems from the 'Power and Conflict' anthology. Pupils complete two lessons about each poem: one on understanding and one on analysis. Pupils study the poems in three groups, and they pause after each group to compare how those poems present common themes.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to analyse the big ideas in 'Extract from The Prelude'.

Key Notes

  • Initially, Wordsworth presents himself as a hero, later nature is presented as an extraordinary presence.
  • Imagery of man's arrogant efforts to dominate nature are repeated across the poem, warning of his inferiority to nature.
  • Pretty aural and visual imagery early in the poem contrasts with cacophony after the volta.
  • The monosyllabic description of the mountain shows how nature transcends the world of man.
  • The poem explores both power and conflict: man's conflict with himself after learning the true power of nature.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Epic Poetry: a long poem narrating the deeds of legendary or heroic figures
  • Cacophony: a harsh discordant mixture of sounds
  • Volta: sudden shift in emotion
  • Awe: a feeling of reverential respect mixed with fear or wonder
  • Monosyllabic: consisting of one syllable

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • The use of the epic form is just to show Wordsworth's adventure.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain this English learning goal in two key points.

Initially, Wordsworth presents himself as a hero, later nature is presented as an extraordinary presence. Imagery of man's arrogant efforts to dominate nature are repeated across the poem, warning of his inferiority to nature.

2. Define this language term and use it in a sentence. 'Epic Poetry'

a long poem narrating the deeds of legendary or heroic figures.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: The use of the epic form is just to show Wordsworth's adventure. Correction: The use of epic form may suggest how nature is a heroic or legendary presence worthy of the epic poem form.

More Lessons In This Unit

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