Poem Analysis - The Golden Legend 1 Prologue

Introduction

The Golden Legend: 1. Prologue by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a dramatic and evocative poem that blends elements of the supernatural with deep introspection. The poem begins with a vivid and intense scene of Lucifer and his minions attempting to destroy the Spire of Strasbourg Cathedral, only to be thwarted by the protective forces of good. This dramatic opening sets the stage for a shift in mood as the poem transitions to a more introspective and melancholic tone, focusing on Prince Henry's struggle with illness and his encounter with Lucifer disguised as a physician. The poem explores themes of mortality, the struggle between good and evil, and the human desire for relief from suffering.

Themes of Mortality and Suffering

The poem delves deeply into the theme of mortality, particularly through the character of Prince Henry. His illness and his desperate search for a cure highlight the human fear of death and the desire for relief from suffering. Prince Henry's words, "I cannot sleep! my fervid brain / Calls up the vanished Past again," reflect his tormented state, where memories of the past haunt him and offer no solace. His longing for rest and peace, "The thought of life that ne'er shall cease / Has something in it like despair," underscores his despair and his longing for an end to his suffering. This theme is further emphasized by the appearance of Lucifer, who offers a false cure, symbolizing the temptation to seek relief from suffering through dangerous and ultimately destructive means.

The Struggle Between Good and Evil

The struggle between good and evil is a central theme in the poem, evident from the opening scene where Lucifer and his minions are thwarted by the protective forces of good. This conflict is mirrored in Prince Henry's internal struggle, where his desire for relief from suffering leads him to entertain the idea of accepting Lucifer's offer. The presence of the Angel, who warns Prince Henry of the true nature of Lucifer's potion, represents the voice of good that ultimately saves him from making a fatal mistake. The Angel's words, "It is but the rest of the fire, from which the air / has been taken! / It is but the rest of the sand, when the hour-glass is not shaken!" highlight the deceptive nature of Lucifer's offer and the importance of discerning the true path to salvation.

Symbolism and Imagery

The poem is rich in symbolism and vivid imagery, which contribute to its overall message. The Spire of Strasbourg Cathedral, for example, symbolizes the enduring strength of faith and the protection of the divine. The bells of the cathedral, which are described as "anointed, / And baptized with holy water," represent the power of sacred rituals and the protection they offer against evil. The appearance of Lucifer as a traveling physician is a powerful symbol of the deceptive nature of evil, which often disguises itself as a source of relief and salvation. The flask of potion offered by Lucifer, described as "the Water of Life," is a potent symbol of the false promises of evil, which can lead to destruction rather than salvation. The Angel's aeolian harp, which produces music that can be heard only by those who are spiritually attuned, symbolizes the divine guidance that is available to those who seek it.

Conclusion

The Golden Legend: 1. Prologue by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a powerful exploration of the human struggle with mortality, the conflict between good and evil, and the deceptive nature of false promises. Through vivid imagery and rich symbolism, the poem highlights the importance of discerning the true path to salvation and the dangers of seeking relief from suffering through destructive means. The poem ultimately offers a message of hope, emphasizing the enduring strength of faith and the protective power of divine guidance. The final scene, where Prince Henry is saved from making a fatal mistake, underscores the importance of listening to the voice of good and resisting the temptations of evil.