Poem Analysis - Charles Sumner

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "Charles Sumner" is a reflective and somber tribute to the life and legacy of Charles Sumner, a prominent American politician known for his advocacy for abolition and civil rights. The poem's tone is reverential and melancholic, shifting from a sense of loss to a contemplation of enduring influence. Longfellow uses vivid imagery and symbolic language to honor Sumner's contributions and to explore themes of mortality, legacy, and the enduring impact of great individuals.

Historical and Biographical Context

Charles Sumner was a U.S. Senator from Massachusetts who was a leading voice for abolition and civil rights in the mid-19th century. He was severely beaten by a Congressman from South Carolina in 1856 for his anti-slavery speech, an event that highlighted the deep divisions in American society. Longfellow, a contemporary of Sumner, was a well-known poet who often addressed social and political issues in his work. This poem serves as a tribute to Sumner's courage and enduring legacy.

Themes of Mortality and Legacy

The poem grapples with the theme of mortality, acknowledging the inevitability of death and the unfinished nature of life. Longfellow writes, "Death takes us by surprise, And stays our hurrying feet; The great design unfinished lies, Our lives are incomplete." This reflects the abruptness of death and the sense of loss it brings. However, the poem also explores the idea that a great man's legacy can outlive him, as seen in the lines, "So when a great man dies, For years beyond our ken, The light he leaves behind him lies Upon the paths of men." This suggests that Sumner's influence will continue to guide future generations.

Themes of Sacrifice and Heroism

The theme of sacrifice and heroism is central to the poem. Longfellow compares Sumner to Winkelried, a Swiss hero who sacrificed himself to save his comrades. The lines, "Like Winkelried, he took Into his manly breast The sheaf of hostile spears, and broke A path for the oppressed," highlight Sumner's bravery and selflessness in fighting for the oppressed. This comparison elevates Sumner to the status of a heroic figure, emphasizing his willingness to endure suffering for a greater cause.

Symbolism and Imagery

The poem is rich in symbolic imagery that reinforces its themes. The "sheaf of hostile spears" symbolizes the challenges and opposition Sumner faced in his fight for justice. The "star quenched on high" represents the enduring influence of a great man, whose light continues to shine even after his death. The "bridge's arch of stone" symbolizes the completeness and perfection that life and death achieve together, suggesting that Sumner's life, though cut short, was part of a larger, perfect design. The "light he leaves behind him" is a powerful image of enduring legacy, suggesting that Sumner's ideas and actions will continue to illuminate the paths of future generations.

Conclusion

In "Charles Sumner," Longfellow pays a heartfelt tribute to a man who dedicated his life to the fight for justice and equality. Through vivid imagery and symbolic language, the poem explores themes of mortality, legacy, and heroism. Longfellow's use of historical and mythical references elevates Sumner to the status of a heroic figure, whose sacrifice and bravery will continue to inspire future generations. The poem ultimately conveys a message of hope and endurance, suggesting that the light of great individuals like Sumner will continue to guide and inspire long after their deaths.