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Year 10 - English

Analysing the poem 'Love's Philosophy' by Percy Bysshe Shelley

'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 Shelley uses language, form and structure to express a powerful desire for someone else.

Key Notes

  • Shelley uses natural imagery to create an idyllic and idealised natural landscape.
  • Shelley uses religious imagery to suggest that natural symmetry is divine.
  • Shelley uses sensual verbs to convey his desire for physical intimacy with his partner.
  • Shelley uses rhetorical questions to suggest his frustration in his failure to woo his lover.
  • Shelley uses form and structure to subtly reinforce the importance of coupling.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • divine: supremely excellent, like God (or the work of God)
  • rhetorical questions: asked for effect or to provoke thought, not requiring an answer
  • sensual: relating to the senses, especially pleasure derived from physical gratification or aesthetic experiences
  • religious imagery: symbols or representations evoking spiritual themes
  • trochaic meter: poetic rhythm with stressed syllables followed by unstressed syllables, like 'footsteps' or 'poetry'

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • This poem is only about a Romantic view of love (from an abstract, philosophical perspective).

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

Shelley uses natural imagery to create an idyllic and idealised natural landscape. Shelley uses religious imagery to suggest that natural symmetry is divine.

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

supremely excellent, like God (or the work of God).

3. Correct this common English misunderstanding.

Mistake: This poem is only about a Romantic view of love (from an abstract, philosophical perspective). Correction: This poem appears to have an ulterior motive. Shelley uses language, form and structure to subtly persuade the listener to enter into a romantic relationship with him.

More Lessons In This Unit

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