Poem Analysis - In The Harbour The Childrens Crusade

An Overview of the Poem

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "In The Harbour: The Children's Crusade" is a reflective and somber poem that delves into the historical event of the Children's Crusade. The poem's tone is initially curious and contemplative, shifting to a more somber and tragic mood as it progresses. Longfellow uses vivid imagery and symbolic language to convey the innocence and naivety of the children involved in this ill-fated journey. The poem is structured in a narrative form, which helps to build a sense of the journey's progression and the increasing hardships faced by the children.

The Historical Context and Author's Background

The Children's Crusade was a tragic event that took place in 1212, where thousands of children, inspired by religious fervor, set out to reclaim the Holy Land from Muslim control. Most of the children perished during the journey, either from exhaustion, disease, or being sold into slavery. Longfellow, an American poet, was known for his historical and narrative poems, often exploring themes of loss, tragedy, and the human condition. This poem reflects his interest in historical events and their enduring impact on human memory and emotion.

The Theme of Innocence and Naivety

The most prominent theme in the poem is the innocence and naivety of the children. Longfellow describes the children as "in the flower of youth, heart in heart, and hand in hand," emphasizing their unity and purity. The phrase "Ignorant of what helps or harms" underscores their lack of understanding about the dangers they face. This innocence is further highlighted by the imagery of the children as "a shower of blossoms blown from the parent trees" and "a flock of birds that fly through the unfrequented sky." These images suggest fragility and vulnerability, contrasting sharply with the harsh realities of their journey.

The Theme of Religious Fervor and Its Consequences

Another significant theme is the power of religious fervor and its consequences. The poem explores how the children's simple, child-like trust and faith led them to believe they could achieve what adult crusaders had failed to do. The "Hermit, preaching Holy Wars" symbolizes the religious leaders who inspired the children, unaware of the tragic outcome of their words. The poem questions the wisdom of such fervor, showing how it can lead to unnecessary suffering and loss. The "resistless breath" of the hermit's words upheaves the children, much like a summer wind upheaves leaves, suggesting the irresistible and destructive power of religious zeal.

The Theme of Tragedy and Loss

The theme of tragedy and loss is evident throughout the poem. The children's journey is described as increasingly difficult, with "long and dreary" days, "weary" feet, and "faint" hearts. The natural imagery of the "calmly-flowing river" changing into a "mountain torrent" reflects the escalating dangers and hardships they face. The poem's final stanzas describe the children's encounter with the avalanche and the "formless, nameless, never-ending" fear that fills them. These images of natural chaos and destruction mirror the tragic fate of the children, emphasizing the poem's somber and tragic tone.

Recurring Symbols and Vivid Images

The poem is rich with recurring symbols and vivid images that contribute to its overall message. The "Holy Land" serves as a symbol of the children's ultimate goal and the religious fervor that drives them. The "red cross" on the children's breasts represents their devotion and the religious cause they believe in. The natural imagery of the river, the sun, and the avalanche symbolizes the increasing challenges and dangers they face. The "dauntless leader" who encourages the children to continue despite their hardships represents the persistent and misguided belief in their mission. The avalanche and the "formless, nameless, never-ending" fear it evokes symbolize the inevitable and tragic outcome of their journey.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "In The Harbour: The Children's Crusade" is a poignant exploration of innocence, religious fervor, and tragedy. Longfellow uses vivid imagery and symbolic language to convey the children's journey and the tragic consequences of their actions. The poem serves as a reminder of the dangers of unquestioning faith and the importance of understanding the realities of the world. It invites readers to reflect on the enduring impact of historical events and the lessons they can teach us about human nature and the consequences of our actions.