Poem Analysis - Ancestry

Initial Impression and Tone

Stephen Crane's poem Ancestry presents a vivid and somewhat whimsical scene that quickly shifts to a contemplative mood. The poem begins with a dramatic image of mountains in conflict, juxtaposed with a tiny man. The initial tone is lighthearted and almost humorous, as the speaker laughs at the absurdity of the situation. However, the tone shifts to a more serious and reflective one as the poem progresses, highlighting the significance of ancestry and heritage.

Themes of Heritage and Resilience

The poem explores the theme of heritage and the power it holds over individuals. The little man's ability to stand against the mountains is attributed to the strength and victories of his grandfathers. This suggests that the virtues and accomplishments of one's ancestors can provide a sense of resilience and courage. The phrase His grandfathers beat them many times emphasizes the idea that past successes can inspire and empower future generations. The poem also touches on the theme of perception and reality. The speaker's initial laughter at the little man's seemingly futile struggle contrasts with the deeper truth revealed by the other person, highlighting how appearances can be deceiving.

Symbolism of the Mountains and the Little Man

The mountains and the little man are central symbols in the poem. The mountains, described as angry and ranged in battle-front, represent formidable challenges or obstacles. The little man, who is no bigger than the speaker's finger, symbolizes an individual facing overwhelming odds. His ability to stand against the mountains, despite his small size, underscores the theme of resilience and the power of heritage. The mountains could also be seen as metaphorical representations of societal or personal struggles, while the little man embodies the human spirit's capacity to endure and overcome. The poem invites readers to consider the unseen strengths that individuals might possess, often rooted in their ancestral legacies.

The Virtue of Grandfathers

The phrase Then did I see much virtue in grandfathers encapsulates the poem's central message. The speaker's realization of the value of ancestry comes after learning about the little man's grandfathers' past victories. This suggests that understanding and appreciating one's heritage can provide a sense of strength and purpose. The poem implies that the virtues and achievements of past generations can be a source of inspiration and support for future ones. The speaker's shift from laughter to respect highlights the transformative power of recognizing the significance of one's ancestry. This theme is reinforced by the poem's structure, which moves from a lighthearted beginning to a more reflective and serious conclusion.