Poem Analysis - Helen Of Tyre

Initial Impression and Tone

Henry Wadsworth Longfellows Helen Of Tyre is a reflective and somewhat melancholic poem that explores themes of identity, deception, and the passage of time. The poem begins with a mystical and ethereal tone, describing a phantom-like figure that appears through the mist of years. This tone shifts to one of caution and warning as the poem progresses, particularly in the final stanzas. The poem is written in a narrative style, which allows Longfellow to weave a tale that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

Historical and Authorial Context

Longfellow was an American poet who often drew inspiration from historical and mythological figures. Helen of Tyre, as mentioned in the poem, is a reference to Helen of Troy, a figure from Greek mythology known for her beauty and the Trojan War that was fought over her. The poem also mentions Jezebel, a biblical figure known for her wickedness, and Simon Magus, a historical figure associated with sorcery. These references suggest that Longfellow was exploring themes of fame, deception, and the consequences of a life driven by ambition and desire.

Themes of Deception and Illusion

The poem delves deeply into the theme of deception and illusion. The phantom-like figure of Helen of Tyre is described as a woman of cloud and fire, suggesting that she is not a tangible being but rather a construct of myth and legend. This illusion is further emphasized when Simon Magus promises to lift her from her evil fame and make her the Intelligence Divine. The use of the word phantom and the description of Helen as a woman of cloud and fire highlight the idea that her identity is fluid and uncertain, much like the mist through which she appears.

Themes of Time and Mortality

The passage of time is a significant theme in the poem. The phrase through the purple mist of the years suggests a long span of time, during which Helen of Tyre has become a legendary figure. The final stanzas of the poem emphasize the transience of life and the inevitability of decay. The town of Tyre, once a bustling center of trade and commerce, is now described as a phantom, a shadow, a thought, and a name upon mens lips. This imagery underscores the idea that all things, whether they are people or cities, are subject to the passage of time and the forces of decay.

Themes of Redemption and Fall

The poem also explores the theme of redemption and fall. Helen of Tyre is described as a woman who has lived a life of sorrow and shame, and Simon Magus promises to lift her from this evil fame. However, the poem suggests that this promise is false, and that Helen is doomed to follow the wizard from land to land, like a leaf blown by the gust. This imagery of a leaf being blown by the wind suggests a lack of control and direction, and highlights the idea that Helen is a victim of her own desires and the deception of others.

Symbolism and Imagery

The poem is rich in symbolism and imagery. The phantom-like figure of Helen of Tyre is a powerful symbol of illusion and deception. The mist through which she appears suggests uncertainty and ambiguity, while the description of her as a woman of cloud and fire highlights her ethereal and otherworldly nature. The town of Tyre, with its rafts of cedar trees and merchandise, is a symbol of prosperity and commerce, but it is also a symbol of transience and decay. The final image of the town as a phantom, a shadow, a thought, and a name upon mens lips underscores the idea that all things are subject to the passage of time and the forces of decay.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Helen Of Tyre is a poem that explores the themes of deception, time, and redemption through the use of vivid imagery and symbolism. Longfellows use of historical and mythological figures adds depth and complexity to the poem, while the narrative style allows him to weave a tale that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The final stanzas of the poem serve as a cautionary tale, warning readers of the dangers of deception and the inevitability of decay. The poem ultimately invites readers to reflect on the transience of life and the importance of living with integrity and purpose.