Poem Analysis - Evangeline Part The First 2

An Idyllic Setting with Underlying Tension

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "Evangeline: Part The First. 2" paints a serene and picturesque scene of rural life in Acadia, capturing the beauty of the changing seasons and the tranquility of a close-knit community. The poem begins with a calm and reflective tone, describing the arrival of autumn and the subsequent "Summer of All-Saints," a time of peace and harmony. However, as the poem progresses, an undercurrent of tension and foreboding emerges, hinting at the impending disruption of this idyllic life. The shift in mood from peaceful to apprehensive is subtle yet significant, reflecting the historical context of the Acadians' impending expulsion.

Historical and Cultural Context

Longfellow's poem is set against the backdrop of the Acadian expulsion, a historical event where the British forcibly removed the Acadian people from their homes during the French and Indian War. This context is crucial for understanding the poem's themes of displacement, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. The Acadians, known for their peaceful and agrarian way of life, are portrayed as a community deeply connected to their land and each other. This historical context adds a layer of poignancy to the poem, as the reader is aware of the impending tragedy that will disrupt this harmonious existence.

Themes of Nature and Harmony

The poem develops the theme of nature and harmony through vivid imagery and sensory details. The description of the changing seasons, the behavior of animals, and the activities of the villagers all contribute to a sense of natural order and harmony. The "Summer of All-Saints" is portrayed as a time of magical light and freshness, where all sounds are in harmony. This theme is reinforced by the imagery of the landscape, which is described as "new-created in all the freshness of childhood." The harmony extends to the human activities, such as the milking of cows and the return of the shepherd, which are depicted as peaceful and rhythmic. The theme of harmony is also evident in the interactions between the characters, particularly the warm and welcoming atmosphere in the farmer's home.

Themes of Foreshadowing and Tension

The theme of foreshadowing and tension is introduced through the signs of an impending harsh winter and the arrival of English ships. The "prophetic instinct of want" exhibited by the bees and the thick fur of the foxes suggest a coming hardship. The arrival of the English ships, with their cannon pointed against the Acadians, adds a sense of impending doom. This tension is further heightened by the villagers' surmises of evil and their preparations to flee to the forest. The contrast between the peaceful rural life and the looming threat of expulsion creates a sense of foreboding, making the reader aware of the fragility of the community's harmony. The farmer's attempts to reassure his friend Basil with jokes and optimism serve to highlight the underlying tension, as the reader knows that the peace will soon be disrupted.

Themes of Love and Community

The theme of love and community is central to the poem, as it is evident in the interactions between the characters and their deep connection to their land. The love between Evangeline and her lover is a significant aspect of the poem, symbolized by the "beating heart" of Evangeline when she hears his footsteps. The community's love for their land is evident in the detailed descriptions of their homes and the care they take in their daily activities. The farmer's pride in his home and barn, and his joy in the upcoming contract, reflect the community's deep sense of belonging and attachment to their land. This theme of love and community is contrasted with the impending threat of expulsion, highlighting the tragedy of the Acadians' displacement.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

The poem is rich with recurring symbols and vivid imagery that contribute to its overall message. The changing seasons and the natural world serve as symbols of the passage of time and the cyclical nature of life. The "Summer of All-Saints" is a symbol of a brief period of peace and harmony before the impending disruption. The English ships, with their cannon pointed against the Acadians, are a powerful symbol of the threat of expulsion and the fragility of the community's harmony. The farmer's home and barn, built with care and pride, symbolize the community's deep connection to their land and their sense of belonging. The imagery of the landscape, with its "golden vapors" and "glittering trees," reinforces the theme of natural harmony and the beauty of the Acadian way of life. The recurring symbol of the heifer, with its "snow-white hide" and "ribbon that waved from her collar," represents the innocence and purity of the Acadian people, who are about to be disrupted by the violence of expulsion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Evangeline: Part The First. 2" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a poignant exploration of the themes of nature, harmony, foreshadowing, love, and community. Through vivid imagery and sensory details, the poem captures the beauty and tranquility of rural life in Acadia, while also hinting at the impending disruption of this idyllic existence. The historical context of the Acadian expulsion adds a layer of poignancy to the poem, as the reader is aware of the tragedy that will soon befall the community. The recurring symbols and imagery in the poem contribute to its overall message, highlighting the fragility of harmony and the deep connection between the Acadians and their land. The poem serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity, and the enduring beauty of a community deeply connected to its land and each other.