Subjects

Careers

Open the App

Subjects

How is Power Presented in Ozymandias? - Simple Analysis for Kids

Open

11

0

user profile picture

Bella Findlay

7/7/2022

English Lang.

How does Shelley explore the power of humans in his poem Ozymandias?

How is Power Presented in Ozymandias? - Simple Analysis for Kids

Ozymandias by Percy Bysshe Shelley explores the transient nature of human power and the enduring strength of art. The poem critiques the arrogance of rulers and the inevitable decay of their legacies.

Key points:

  • The poem is based on a statue of Rameses II, an Egyptian pharaoh
  • It contrasts the pharaoh's past grandeur with the current ruined state of his statue
  • Shelley uses vivid imagery to depict the statue's decay and the surrounding desolate landscape
  • The poem reflects on the futility of human ambition and the power of nature over time
  • It emphasizes the irony of Ozymandias' boastful inscription in the face of his fallen empire
...

7/7/2022

364

How does Shelley explore the power of humans in his poem Ozymandias?
Shelley explores the power of humans in his poem 'Ozymandias' which is

View

The Irony of Power and Legacy

Continuing from the previous page, Shelley's 'Ozymandias' further develops its themes through structural elements and powerful imagery.

The volta, marked by the phrase "On the pedestal these words appear:", serves as a pivotal point in the poem:

Definition: A volta is a turn or shift in the poem's tone or argument.

This structural device emphasizes the contrast between Ozymandias' grand claims and the reality of his fallen empire:

Quote: "My name is Ozymandias, king of kings: / Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!"

Analysis: These lines, inscribed on the pedestal, reveal Ozymandias' hubris and the irony of his lasting legacy.

Shelley uses vivid imagery to depict the desolate landscape surrounding the ruined statue:

Quote: "Nothing beside remains. Round the decay / Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare / The lone and level sands stretch far away."

This description serves multiple purposes:

  1. It contrasts sharply with Ozymandias' boastful claims.
  2. It emphasizes the power of nature and time over human achievements.
  3. It symbolizes the ultimate futility of earthly power and ambition.

The poem's final lines leave readers with a powerful message about the transience of human power and the enduring nature of art:

Highlight: While Ozymandias' empire has crumbled, the artist's depiction of his "passions" has survived, preserving a critique of the pharaoh's rule.

'Ozymandias' serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of humility. It reminds us that even the mightiest empires are subject to the ravages of time, while art and ideas can endure for centuries.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Knowunity is the # 1 ranked education app in five European countries

Knowunity was a featured story by Apple and has consistently topped the app store charts within the education category in Germany, Italy, Poland, Switzerland and United Kingdom. Join Knowunity today and help millions of students around the world.

Ranked #1 Education App

Download in

Google Play

Download in

App Store

Knowunity is the # 1 ranked education app in five European countries

4.9+

Average App Rating

21 M

Students use Knowunity

#1

In Education App Charts in 17 Countries

950 K+

Students uploaded study notes

Still not sure? Look at what your fellow peers are saying...

iOS User

I love this app so much [...] I recommend Knowunity to everyone!!! I went from a C to an A with it :D

Stefan S, iOS User

The application is very simple and well designed. So far I have found what I was looking for :D

SuSSan, iOS User

Love this App ❤️, I use it basically all the time whenever I'm studying

 

English Lang.

364

Jul 7, 2022

2 pages

How is Power Presented in Ozymandias? - Simple Analysis for Kids

user profile picture

Bella Findlay

@bellafindlay_uk

Ozymandias by Percy Bysshe Shelley explores the transient nature of human power and the enduring strength of art. The poem critiques the arrogance of rulers and the inevitable decay of their legacies.

Key points:

  • The poem is based on... Show more

How does Shelley explore the power of humans in his poem Ozymandias?
Shelley explores the power of humans in his poem 'Ozymandias' which is

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

The Irony of Power and Legacy

Continuing from the previous page, Shelley's 'Ozymandias' further develops its themes through structural elements and powerful imagery.

The volta, marked by the phrase "On the pedestal these words appear:", serves as a pivotal point in the poem:

Definition: A volta is a turn or shift in the poem's tone or argument.

This structural device emphasizes the contrast between Ozymandias' grand claims and the reality of his fallen empire:

Quote: "My name is Ozymandias, king of kings: / Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!"

Analysis: These lines, inscribed on the pedestal, reveal Ozymandias' hubris and the irony of his lasting legacy.

Shelley uses vivid imagery to depict the desolate landscape surrounding the ruined statue:

Quote: "Nothing beside remains. Round the decay / Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare / The lone and level sands stretch far away."

This description serves multiple purposes:

  1. It contrasts sharply with Ozymandias' boastful claims.
  2. It emphasizes the power of nature and time over human achievements.
  3. It symbolizes the ultimate futility of earthly power and ambition.

The poem's final lines leave readers with a powerful message about the transience of human power and the enduring nature of art:

Highlight: While Ozymandias' empire has crumbled, the artist's depiction of his "passions" has survived, preserving a critique of the pharaoh's rule.

'Ozymandias' serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the importance of humility. It reminds us that even the mightiest empires are subject to the ravages of time, while art and ideas can endure for centuries.

How does Shelley explore the power of humans in his poem Ozymandias?
Shelley explores the power of humans in his poem 'Ozymandias' which is

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Exploring Power and Hubris in Ozymandias

Shelley's poem 'Ozymandias' delves into the complex themes of human power, arrogance, and the inevitable passage of time. The poem is inspired by a story about the Egyptian pharaoh Rameses II, using the imagery of a decaying statue to symbolize the transient nature of human authority.

The opening line, "antique land," sets the stage for a tale of bygone eras. This phrase carries dual significance:

Vocabulary: "Antique" in this context implies both age and value, suggesting the statue's historical importance.

The description of the statue's facial expression as a "sneer of cold command" vividly portrays Ozymandias' oppressive rule:

Quote: "sneer of cold command"

Analysis: This phrase encapsulates the pharaoh's cruel and dismissive attitude towards his subjects, highlighting the abuse of power.

Shelley explores the power dynamics between ruler and subjects through the statue's creation:

Highlight: The statue, likely built through slave labor, ironically becomes a testament to the people's ability to outlast their oppressor through art.

The poem's structure plays a crucial role in conveying its themes:

Example: The use of a volta turnturn in the poem marks a shift from description to revelation, emphasizing the irony of Ozymandias' boastful inscription.

Shelley's exploration of human power in 'Ozymandias' serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of earthly authority and the enduring power of art and nature.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️

Thomas R

iOS user

Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades

Brad T

Android user

Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend

Aubrey

iOS user

Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀

Marco B

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!

Paul T

iOS user