Song of Saul Before His Last Battle
Song of Saul Before His Last Battle - meaning Summary
Facing Death with Royal Duty
The poem presents a warrior-king speaking before battle, telling comrades to press on if he falls and to bury him where foes stand. He orders his shield-bearer to leave him dead rather than abandon the fight. Addressing his heir and closest companion, he bids a poignant farewell while framing death as an extension of royal duty and honor. The tone is stoic, resolute, and centered on loyalty and sacrificial leadership.
Read Complete AnalysesWarriors and chiefs! should the shaft or the sword Pierce me in leading the host of the Lord, Heed not the corse, though a king’s in your path: Bury your steel in the bosoms of Gath! Thou who art bearing my buckler and bow, Should the soldiers of Saul look away from the foe, Stretch me that moment in blood at thy feet! Mine be the doom which they dared not to meet. Farewell to others, but never we part, Heir to my royalty, son of my heart! Bright is the diadem, boundless the sway, Or kingly the death, which awaits us to-day!
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