The Germans on the Heighs of Hochheim
The Germans on the Heighs of Hochheim - context Summary
Battle of Hochheim Moment
This short poem responds to the Battle of Hochheim, pausing a scene of combat to record a sudden, ecstatic cry as the Rhine flashes through battle-smoke. It frames German soldiers as freed from oppression and celebrates a turning moment in which they cast off the yoke. The piece reflects Wordsworth’s political sympathies and his favorable view of revolutionary change, registering hope through a vivid, public wartime image.
Read Complete AnalysesABRUPTLY paused the strife; The field throughout Resting upon his arms each warrior stood, Checked in the very act and deed of blood, With breath suspended, like a listening scout. O Silence! thou wert mother of a shout That through the texture of yon azure dome Cleaves its glad way, a cry of harvest home Uttered to Heaven in ecstasy devout! The barrier Rhine hath flashed, through battle-smoke, On men who gaze heart-smitten by the view, As if all Germany had felt the shock! --Fly, wretched Gauls! ere they the charge renew Who have seen--themselves now casting off the yoke-- The unconquerable Stream his course pursue.
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