On Napoleon’s Escape from Elba
On Napoleon’s Escape from Elba - context Summary
1815: Napoleon's Escape
Written in the immediate wake of Napoleon’s 1815 escape from Elba, the short poem sketches the ex‑Emperor’s rapid return from island exile to Lyon and Paris. Byron notes the ease of Napoleon’s progress and the theatricality of his reception, from “taking towns” to staging balls and bowing to opponents. The lines register contemporary astonishment at a sudden political reversal and the spectacle of restored power.
Read Complete AnalysesOnce fairly set out on his party of pleasure, Taking towns at his liking, and crowns at his leisure, From Elba to Lyons and Paris he goes, Making balls for the ladies, and bows tohis foes.
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