Emperors and Kings
How Often Have Temples Rung
Emperors and Kings - meaning Summary
Triumph Questioned, Mercy Urged
Wordsworth addresses rulers, criticizing victories celebrated with impious thanksgiving when they reward oppression. He contrasts hollow triumphs and fruitless sorrow with a new, divinely sanctioned peace that raises hope for salvation. The poem urges those in power to honor the liberated popular reason that legitimized their rule, to act justly and gratefully, and to avoid reviving oppressive practices that would warrant harsher retribution.
Read Complete AnalysesEMPERORS and Kings, how oft have temples rung With impious thanksgiving, the Almighty's scorn! How oft above their altars have been hung Trophies that led the good and wise to mourn Triumphant wrong, battle of battle born, And sorrow that to fruitless sorrow clung! Now, from Heaven-sanctioned victory, Peace is sprung; In this firm hour Salvation lifts her horn. Glory to arms! But, conscious that the nerve Of popular reason, long mistrusted, freed Your thrones, ye Powers, from duty fear to swerve! Be just, be grateful; nor, the oppressor's creed Reviving, heavier chastisement deserve Than ever forced unpitied hearts to bleed.
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