Poem Analysis - The Four Princesses At Wilna

First Impressions

The poem The Four Princesses At Wilna by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow presents a serene and idealized scene, focusing on four young women who embody innocence, beauty, and nobility. The tone is reverent and admiring, with a slight shift towards reflection as the poem progresses. The imagery is rich and evocative, painting a picture of grace and purity. The poem's form, with its structured rhyme and meter, supports the sense of order and harmony that pervades the scene.

Themes of Innocence and Nobility

The poem explores the theme of innocence through the depiction of the four princesses. Their sweet faces and soft eyes are described as innocent and sweet, emphasizing their purity and lack of guile. This innocence is further highlighted by their unconsciousness of their own beauty and renown, suggesting a natural and unspoiled state. The theme of nobility is intertwined with innocence, as the princesses are described as wearing the triple crown of youth, beauty, and a great, untainted name. This suggests that their noble status is not just a matter of birth, but also of character.

Themes of Love and Spirituality

The poem also delves into the theme of love, particularly through the song heard in the street. The song mentions Faith, Hope, and Love, with Love being described as the greatest of the three. This reflects the Christian tradition that places love at the heart of spiritual life. The princesses, with their innocent and sweet spirits, can be seen as embodiments of these virtues, gazing on the world with a pure and loving gaze. The song serves as a reminder of the spiritual dimension of the scene, elevating the poem beyond a mere description of physical beauty.

Symbolism of the Princesses and the Song

The four princesses serve as a powerful symbol of innocence, beauty, and nobility. Their soft eyes and gentle grace represent the ideal of purity and grace. The triple crown they wear symbolizes the three aspects of their noble status: youth, beauty, and a great name. The song heard in the street is another significant symbol. It represents the voice of wisdom or spirituality, reminding the reader of the deeper values that underpin the scene. The song's message about Faith, Hope, and Love adds a layer of spiritual depth to the poem, suggesting that the princesses' innocence and beauty are not just physical, but also spiritual.

Conclusion

The Four Princesses At Wilna by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a poem that celebrates innocence, nobility, and love. Through vivid imagery and symbolism, the poem paints a picture of four young women who embody these virtues. The song heard in the street serves as a reminder of the spiritual dimension of the scene, elevating the poem beyond a mere description of physical beauty. The poem's significance lies in its celebration of purity and grace, and its reminder of the deeper values that underpin true beauty.