Structure and Style of Maude Clare
The Maude Clare poem follows a ballad structure with an ABCB rhyme scheme, creating a sense of discomfort that mirrors the narrative tension. Rossetti employs dialogue extensively, particularly from female characters, to highlight women's perspectives in Victorian society.
Highlight: The caesurae in stanza 8 when Thomas struggles to speak illustrates his emotional turmoil, leaving his motivations ambiguous.
The poem presents five points of view through a narrator and four characters: Thomas's mother, Maude Clare, Thomas, and Nell. This multi-perspective approach adds depth to the story and allows readers to interpret events from different angles.
Example: Maude Clare's repetition of "brought my gift" and "to bless" emphasizes her scornful tone as she sarcastically presents her anger.
Narrative Impact and Character Analysis
The poem's ending leaves a lasting impact, with Nell asserting her determination to win Thomas's love. However, Rossetti's choice to emphasize Maude Clare's name in the finale suggests an uncertain future for the newlyweds.
Quote: "I'll love him till he loves me best, / Me best of all, Maude Clare."
Nell's confrontation with Maude Clare in the final stanzas demonstrates her strength and defiance, contrasting with Thomas's weakness and indecision throughout the poem.
