Poem Analysis - The Twa Herds

Robert Burns's "The Twa Herds" is a satirical and humorous poem that uses the metaphor of feuding clergymen as arguing shepherds to critique religious discord and the narrow-mindedness of certain factions within the Church of Scotland. The poem begins with a lament for the sheep (the congregation) who are now vulnerable due to the conflict. Burns's tone is largely mocking and irreverent, shifting between playful exasperation and pointed criticism. He employs vivid imagery and pointed name-calling to expose the pettiness of the dispute and champion a more tolerant and enlightened approach to faith. Overall, it's a witty commentary on religious division and the power struggles within the Church.

The Church as a Sheepfold: Religious Discord

The poem's central theme is religious discord, presented through the extended metaphor of pastors as "herds" and their congregations as "flocks." Burns immediately establishes this analogy, lamenting the state of the "pious godly flocks" now at risk due to the "twa best herds" falling out. The phrase "bitter black out-cast" highlights the severity of the conflict, emphasizing the negative impact on the community. By depicting the clergymen as shepherds, Burns underscores their responsibility to care for their flock, a responsibility they've neglected in favor of personal animosity. The poem further explores the division between "Old Light" and "New Light" factions, suggesting that the feud is rooted in differing theological perspectives and power struggles within the church. Ultimately, the poem is a plea for unity and an indictment of the divisiveness that plagues religious institutions.

Blind Faith vs. Common Sense: A Battle of Ideologies

Another key theme is the tension between blind faith and reason, represented by the conflict between the "Orthodox" and more progressive elements within the church. Burns clearly sides with the latter, satirizing the rigid dogma of the "Old Light" faction. He mocks the "Orthodoxy" that seeks to banish "Common Sense" to France, suggesting that reason and critical thinking are seen as threats to their established authority. The poem implies that clinging to outdated doctrines and suppressing intellectual inquiry only serves to perpetuate division and stifle genuine spiritual growth. Burns champions a more open-minded and tolerant approach to faith, one that embraces reason and encourages individual interpretation.

Authority and Hypocrisy: Calling Out the Clergy

The poem also explores the theme of authority and hypocrisy, particularly within the clergy. Burns points out the hypocrisy of men "eleckit" by the "brutes themselves" (the congregation) to be their guide, yet neglecting their duty due to personal squabbles. He further emphasizes this point by calling out specific individuals by name, such as Moodie and Russell, and satirizing their actions. Descriptors such as "villain" and "hypocrite," which are hurled between the clergymen, exposes the moral failings of these figures. This directness is a key element of Burns's satirical approach, as he is not afraid to name names and challenge the authority of those he believes are abusing their power.

Symbols of Division: Foxes, Thummarts, and Stanks

The poem utilizes various symbols to represent the dangers and negativity associated with the religious conflict. The "fox" and "worrying tykes" symbolize the threats facing the congregation when their shepherds are distracted by infighting, highlighting the vulnerability of the faithful in the absence of strong leadership. "Moodie's flock" is described as drinking from "Calvin's fountainhead," a symbol of strict Calvinist doctrine, which Burns presents as rigid and potentially poisonous. The "thummart, willcat, brock, and tod" (polecat, wildcat, badger, and fox) that Moodie hunts, represent the enemies of his doctrine, but also, perhaps, the very narrow and aggressive mindset that leads to division. The "poison'd soor Arminian stank" that Moodie avoids represents alternative theological viewpoints, revealing his intolerance. These images all contribute to the poem's critique of religious extremism and the dangers of dogma.

Conclusion: A Plea for Tolerance and Reason

In conclusion, "The Twa Herds" is a biting satire on religious division and the abuse of authority within the Church of Scotland. Through vivid imagery, pointed criticism, and the extended metaphor of feuding shepherds, Robert Burns exposes the pettiness and hypocrisy of religious conflict and champions the values of reason, tolerance, and genuine spiritual connection. The poem serves as a plea for unity and a reminder of the importance of prioritizing the well-being of the flock over personal ambition and rigid dogma. The poem’s lasting significance lies in its universal message about the dangers of unchecked authority and the importance of critical thinking in matters of faith, a message that remains relevant today.