Poem Analysis - Parnells Funeral

W.B. Yeats's "Parnell's Funeral" is a lament and a scathing indictment of Irish society's treatment of Charles Stewart Parnell, a significant political leader. The poem is steeped in bitterness and frustration, reflecting Yeats's disillusionment with the political climate of Ireland after Parnell's fall from grace. It moves from symbolic imagery to direct accusation, ultimately questioning the very soul of the Irish people and contemplating what might have been. The poem expresses deep mourning and scathing condemnation in equal measure.

Historical Context: Parnell's Downfall

Charles Stewart Parnell was an Irish political leader who championed Home Rule. However, his career was destroyed by a scandalous affair with Katharine O'Shea. This controversy split the Irish Parliamentary Party and significantly weakened the Home Rule movement. Yeats, a fervent Irish nationalist, viewed Parnell's downfall as a tragic loss for Ireland, seeing him as a strong leader essential for the nation's progress. This historical backdrop is crucial for understanding the poem's sense of national tragedy and frustrated idealism.

The Theme of Sacrifice and Betrayal

One of the central themes in "Parnell's Funeral" is the idea of sacrifice and betrayal. The first stanza introduces a sense of ritualistic sacrifice with references to the "Great Comedian's tomb" and the question "What is this sacrifice?" The second stanza deepens this with the image of the Cretan myth, mirroring the sacrifice of a beautiful boy, whose heart is cut out and stamped on a Sicilian coin. The entire poem uses the imagery of betrayal and the nation's consumption of the sacrificial heart of the leader. The final lines of the first stanza pose the question: "Whether it be an animal or a man," and question whether this betrayal is a base, animalistic reaction.

Imagery of Ancient Tragedy and National Decay

The poem uses a complex web of imagery, drawing from mythology and Irish history to convey its themes. The image of the sacrificed boy is powerfully symbolic, representing Parnell as a leader brought down by forces both internal and external. The comparison of Parnell's fate to the ancient tragedy depicted on a Sicilian coin suggests a repeating cycle of betrayal and loss. The "tempestuous cloud" and "brighter star" create a dramatic backdrop, reflecting the turbulent emotions surrounding Parnell's death and the hope that momentarily shone before being extinguished. This imagery emphasizes the magnitude of the loss and the decay within Irish society.

The Lie of Irish Identity

The fourth stanza turns into a direct accusation, exploring the theme of falsehood and corrupted national identity. Yeats declares, "All that was sung, / All that was said in Ireland is a lie." This highlights his belief that the public sentiment and political discourse surrounding Parnell's downfall were dishonest and driven by mob mentality ("the c-ontagion of the throng"). The "rhyme rats hear before they die" suggests a superficial, meaningless chorus that signifies the triviality of the situation, and that only the dying understand what has happened. The poet thirsts for accusation because he recognizes the collective guilt, and he wants to strip away the veneer of lies to reveal the "bare soul" of Ireland, questioning its humanity.

Missed Opportunities and Alternate Realities

The second part of the poem explores "what if" scenarios, dwelling on the theme of wasted potential. Yeats suggests that if key figures like de Valera, Cosgrave, or even O'Duffy had symbolically "eaten Parnell's heart," absorbing his leadership qualities, Ireland might have avoided the civil strife and political disappointments that followed. The reference to Jonathan Swift's "bitter wisdom" indicates that a dose of cynicism and realism, qualities Parnell seemingly possessed, could have guided Irish politics more effectively. This section underscores Yeats's regret over the missed opportunities for strong, unified leadership in post-Parnell Ireland.

A Final Note on Significance

"Parnell's Funeral" is more than just a lament for a fallen leader; it is a profound critique of Irish society's failings. Yeats uses powerful imagery and direct accusation to expose what he perceives as a tendency towards self-destruction and a susceptibility to manipulation. The poem serves as a cautionary tale, urging Ireland to confront its past mistakes and strive for a more authentic and unified future. Ultimately, it challenges the reader to confront uncomfortable truths about national identity and the consequences of political betrayal.