The Charge of The Light Brigade vs Kamikaze: A Comparative Analysis

This page provides a comprehensive overview of two significant Power and Conflict poems: "The Charge of the Light Brigade" by Alfred, Lord Tennyson and "Kamikaze" by Beatrice Garland. The comparison explores the themes, context, and structure of both poems, offering valuable insights for students studying these works.

Summary of the Poems

"The Charge of the Light Brigade" recounts a tragic military blunder during the Crimean War, where a brigade of soldiers charges into certain death due to a commander's mistake. Despite the futility of their action, the poem emphasizes the soldiers' bravery and obedience.

Highlight: The poem glorifies the soldiers' heroism while subtly criticizing the leadership that led to their demise.

"Kamikaze" presents a daughter's reflection on her father, a World War II Japanese pilot who chose not to complete his suicide mission. The poem explores the consequences of his decision, including his exile from family and society due to cultural expectations in Japan at the time.

Highlight: The poem questions the nature of heroism and the impact of societal pressure on individual choices.

Historical Context

The historical background of both poems is crucial for understanding their themes and significance:

"The Charge of the Light Brigade":

• Set during the Crimean War, specifically the Battle of Balaclava
• Tennyson, as Poet Laureate, was expected to glorify war and defend the aristocracy
• The war was controversial and unpopular with the British public

Vocabulary: Poet Laureate - An official position appointed by the monarch to compose poems for special events and occasions.

"Kamikaze":

• Inspired by the kamikaze pilots of World War II
• Reflects the strong patriotic and honor-based culture of Japan during the war
• Explores the extreme pressure on individuals to sacrifice themselves for their country

Definition: Kamikaze - Japanese pilots who flew suicide missions, crashing planes filled with explosives into enemy targets during World War II.

Structural Analysis

The structure of each poem reinforces its themes and content:

"The Charge of the Light Brigade":

• Ballad form to commemorate the story
• Dactylic dimeter creates momentum and mirrors the charge
• Irregular rhyme scheme reflects the chaos of battle
• Opens in media res to create tension

Example: The dactylic dimeter (a group of three syllables with emphasis on the first) in lines like "Half a league, half a league" mimics the galloping of horses and the urgency of the charge.

"Kamikaze":

• Tight 6-line stanzas represent the rigid expectations of Japanese society
• Free verse and enjambment contrast with the structure, suggesting the pilot's desire for freedom
• Ends with the word "die," emphasizing the inevitability of death and the futility of the pilot's choice

Quote: "which had been the better way to die" - This final line encapsulates the central dilemma of the poem, questioning the nature of heroism and sacrifice.