Poem Analysis - Thangbrand The Priest

Initial Impression and Tone

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "Thangbrand The Priest" presents a vivid portrait of a flawed and controversial figure, Thangbrand, a priest sent to Iceland to convert the heathens. The poem's tone is initially descriptive and somewhat humorous, but it shifts to darker and more violent tones as the narrative progresses. The poem begins with a lighthearted and almost mocking tone, describing Thangbrand's physical appearance and his reputation among the women of Iceland. This tone gradually darkens as Thangbrand's quarrelsome and boisterous nature is revealed, culminating in a violent act that leads to his eventual downfall.

Themes of Conflict and Cultural Clash

One of the main themes in "Thangbrand The Priest" is the conflict between different cultures and ideologies. Thangbrand, representing Christianity, clashes with the pagan traditions of Iceland. This conflict is evident in his disdain for the Icelanders' books, songs, and their pride in their land. The poem highlights the tension between Thangbrand's religious zeal and the Icelanders' cultural practices, illustrating the challenges of religious conversion and cultural assimilation. The **quarrels and violence** that ensue underscore the deep-seated resistance to change and the difficulties of imposing one's beliefs on another culture.

Themes of Pride and Downfall

Another prominent theme is the **downfall of pride**. Thangbrand's arrogance and disrespect for the Icelanders' way of life ultimately lead to his undoing. His boastful and mocking attitude towards the Icelanders' pride in their land and his derogatory comments about their market reflect his overinflated sense of self-importance. This pride is his downfall, as it provokes the Icelanders to retaliate, leading to a violent confrontation. The poem suggests that excessive pride and disrespect for others can lead to one's own destruction, a common theme in many literary works.

Themes of Violence and Consequence

The theme of violence and its consequences is also central to the poem. Thangbrand's violent outburst in the alehouse, where he kills two men, marks a turning point in the narrative. This act of violence is a direct result of his pride and intolerance, and it leads to his eventual downfall. The poem suggests that violence begets more violence and that such actions have serious and often irreversible consequences. The **final image** of Thangbrand sailing back to Norway in fear, acknowledging the futility of his mission, underscores the destructive power of unchecked pride and violence.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

The alehouse serves as a recurring symbol in the poem, representing a place of conflict and confrontation. It is here that Thangbrand's true nature is revealed, and it is here that the violence that leads to his downfall occurs. The alehouse can be seen as a microcosm of the broader cultural and ideological conflicts at play. The **image of the charcoal drawing** on the wall, depicting Thangbrand in a shovel hat, is another powerful symbol. It represents the Icelanders' defiance and resistance to Thangbrand's attempts to impose his beliefs on them. This drawing is a visual manifestation of their mockery and disrespect, highlighting the futility of Thangbrand's mission.

Conclusion

"Thangbrand The Priest" is a poignant exploration of the dangers of pride, the challenges of cultural assimilation, and the consequences of violence. Through vivid imagery and a shifting tone, Longfellow paints a compelling portrait of a flawed individual whose arrogance and intolerance lead to his downfall. The poem serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive power of unchecked pride and the importance of respecting and understanding different cultures. Ultimately, the poem underscores the idea that violence and intolerance only breed more conflict and that true conversion and understanding come from mutual respect and empathy.