Poem Analysis - The Elected Knight

Initial Impression and Tone

The poem The Elected Knight by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow presents a dramatic and somewhat eerie tale of two knights engaging in a series of jousts. The tone is initially adventurous and mysterious, shifting to one of tragedy and sorrow as the poem progresses. The narrative unfolds with a sense of inevitability, leading to a grim conclusion. The use of archaic language and vivid imagery creates a sense of timelessness and grandeur, fitting for a medieval-inspired story.

Themes of Honor and Mortality

The poem explores several themes, with honor and mortality being the most prominent. The knights' jousts are driven by a sense of honor, particularly the honor of the three maidens who have adorned the Unknown Knight. This honor is so significant that it leads to the knights' ultimate downfall. The theme of mortality is evident in the final stanzas, where both knights lie dead on the plain, and the youngest maiden is left to sorrow until death. The repetition of the word death emphasizes the finality and inevitability of their fate.

Symbolism of the Unknown Knight

The Unknown Knight is a central figure in the poem, symbolizing mystery and fate. His elaborate and magical attire, including the golden birds, wheels, and lance, suggests a supernatural or otherworldly presence. The fact that he is adorned by three maidens adds a layer of intrigue, as it is unclear whether they are his lovers, protectors, or something else entirely. The Unknown Knight's true identity remains ambiguous, leaving the reader to wonder about his origins and purpose. This ambiguity contributes to the poem's sense of fate and inevitability, as if the knights' jousts are part of a larger, predetermined plan.

The Significance of the Jousts

The jousts themselves are a vivid and recurring image in the poem, symbolizing the knights' struggle for honor and dominance. Each joust is described in increasing detail, building tension and anticipation. The final joust, where both knights fall, is a stark and tragic conclusion to their contest. The jousts can be seen as a metaphor for life's struggles, where individuals strive for honor and recognition, often at great personal cost. The poem suggests that such struggles can lead to tragedy, as the knights' pursuit of honor results in their deaths.

Conclusion

The Elected Knight is a powerful exploration of honor, mortality, and fate. Through vivid imagery and symbolic language, Longfellow creates a timeless tale of two knights driven to their doom by their pursuit of honor. The poem's tragic conclusion serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of unyielding ambition and the inevitability of death. The Unknown Knight's mysterious presence adds a layer of intrigue, leaving the reader to ponder the deeper meanings behind his actions and the true nature of his relationship with the maidens. Ultimately, the poem invites reflection on the human condition and the struggles that define our lives.