Poem Analysis - Dane Geld

Introduction: A Warning Against Appeasement

Rudyard Kipling's "Dane-geld" is a forceful and didactic poem, functioning as a warning against the dangers of appeasement. The poem adopts a stern and cautionary tone, initially presenting the temptation to both extort and pay "Dane-geld" – a historical term for protection money paid to Viking raiders. This tone shifts subtly towards a more urgent and resolute stance in the final stanza, advocating for resistance and unwavering principle over short-term convenience. The poem's straightforward language and repetitive structure reinforce its message, making it accessible and memorable.

Historical Echoes: The Lesson of the Danelaw

While the poem's message has timeless relevance, its title and core concept are deeply rooted in English history. "Dane-geld" refers specifically to the tax levied in medieval England to buy off Danish Viking raiders and prevent them from plundering the country. The poem implicitly draws on the historical failure of this strategy, suggesting that such payments only emboldened the Vikings and led to further demands and eventual conquest, culminating in the Danelaw (Viking control over part of England). Thus, the historical context serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the futility of appeasement as a long-term solution.

The Corrosive Nature of Appeasement

One of the central themes explored in "Dane-geld" is the destructive nature of appeasement. The poem meticulously illustrates how paying "Dane-geld," while seemingly offering immediate relief from conflict, ultimately weakens and corrupts the nation that chooses this path. The lines, "But we've proved it again and again,/ That if once you have paid him the Dane-geld/ You never get rid of the Dane," emphasize the recurring cycle of extortion and dependence that results from yielding to initial demands. This theme is conveyed through the repetitive structure of the poem, which echoes the endless loop of paying and being extorted.

The Temptation to Extort: Moral Hazard

The poem also examines the moral hazard presented by the temptation to extort. Kipling acknowledges that "It is always a temptation to an armed and agile nation/ To call upon a neighbour…" This acknowledges the inherent human tendency to exploit weakness. The poem suggests that the act of demanding "Dane-geld" is itself a corrosive influence, potentially leading to a cycle of aggression and oppression. By highlighting this temptation, Kipling implies that maintaining moral integrity and resisting the urge to exploit others are crucial for the long-term well-being of a nation.

Shame and Oppression: The Inevitable Outcome

The poem builds to a stark warning about the inevitable consequences of paying "Dane-geld." The lines "For the end of that game is oppression and shame,/ And the nation that plays it is lost!" offer a powerful image of national degradation. "Oppression" suggests the loss of freedom and self-determination, while "shame" represents the moral cost of choosing expediency over principle. This concluding stanza serves as a call to action, urging readers to reject the perceived convenience of appeasement and embrace the difficult but ultimately more rewarding path of resistance.

Conclusion: A Timeless Call to Vigilance

In summary, "Dane-geld" is a potent and enduring poem that serves as a warning against the dangers of appeasement and the importance of standing firm against extortion. Through its historical allusions, repetitive structure, and forceful language, Kipling delivers a clear and memorable message about the corrosive effects of prioritizing short-term comfort over long-term integrity. The poem's enduring significance lies in its ability to resonate across different historical contexts, reminding us that the temptation to appease may seem appealing, but it ultimately leads to a loss of freedom and self-respect. The poem is a call for vigilance and moral courage in the face of aggression and intimidation.