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Year 10 - English

Analysing the poem 'Sonnet 29' by Elizabeth Barrett Browning

'Love and Relationships'

Unit Summary

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

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explore how Barrett Browning uses imagery and subtle references to present passion within a relationship.

Key Notes

  • Barrett Browning uses an extended metaphor of vines to convey how separation in a relationship can be corruptive.
  • She uses natural imagery to reveal how reunification can be rejuvenating in a relationship.
  • She uses declaratives and imperatives to convey her urgency to be reunified with her lover.
  • She uses exclamatory sentences to suggest the speaker finds the intensity of her thoughts emotionally overwhelming.
  • She uses euphemistic language to convey her sexual and physical desire.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • declaratives: statements expressing facts or opinions
  • imperatives: commands or requests that begin with a verb, giving direct instructions
  • rejuvenating: restoring energy, vitality, or youthfulness; refreshing and invigorating
  • natural imagery: descriptions that use elements from nature, like landscapes, weather, or living things
  • euphemism: substituting a mild or indirect expression for something that is considered rude or taboo

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • The extended metaphor of trees and vines represent her absent lover.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

Barrett Browning uses an extended metaphor of vines to convey how separation in a relationship can be corruptive. She uses natural imagery to reveal how reunification can be rejuvenating in a relationship.

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

statements expressing facts or opinions.

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: The extended metaphor of trees and vines represent her absent lover. Correction: The extended metaphor of a tree symbolises her absent lover whereas the extended metaphor of the vines symbolises her fantastical thoughts of her lover while he is away from her.

More Lessons In This Unit

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