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:
- It contrasts sharply with Ozymandias' boastful claims.
- It emphasizes the power of nature and time over human achievements.
- 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.
