Poem Analysis - The White Doe Of Rylstone 5

Introduction: A Landscape of Loss and Hope

Wordsworth's "The White Doe of Rylstone 5" is a poignant exploration of grief, resilience, and the enduring power of faith amidst tragedy. The poem opens with a stark and imposing landscape, gradually revealing a narrative of the Norton family's downfall due to their participation in a rebellion. While steeped in sorrow, the poem offers glimpses of hope through the character of Francis and the enduring spirit of his sister, Emily. The tone shifts from initial grandeur and past joy to profound grief and then, tentatively, towards a possibility of healing and redemption.

The Weight of History and Place

The poem is set against the backdrop of Norton Tower, a physical manifestation of the family's history and former glory. The tower, described as an "edifice of warlike frame," stands as a sentinel overlooking the land, a reminder of past battles and the family's once prominent position. The surrounding "wastes of Rylstone Fell" and "dark moor" contribute to a sense of isolation and foreboding, mirroring the desolation that has befallen the Nortons. This setting is not merely a backdrop, but an integral part of the narrative, shaping the characters' experiences and amplifying their emotional turmoil. The contrast between the tower's past vibrancy and its present association with grief emphasizes the irreversible nature of the family's tragedy.

Enduring Faith in Adversity

One of the central themes of the poem is the steadfastness of faith in the face of overwhelming adversity. Despite the rebellion's failure and the subsequent executions, the characters, particularly Francis and the "old Man of gentle blood," maintain their convictions. Francis's act of saving the banner from being used as a symbol of scorn demonstrates his unwavering commitment to his beliefs. The "old Man" conveys to Emily the words and actions of Francis and their father, constantly reaffirming that their sacrifice was not entirely in vain, that they acted out of "lost Faith and Christ's dear name." This faith provides a source of comfort and strength, allowing them to endure the "bitterness of woe."

Brotherly Love and Sisterly Duty

The poem underscores the bond of sibling love and the burden of duty. Emily's character is defined by her reverence for her brother Francis and her dedication to fulfilling his charge. She "revered/His farewell words," and "by her brother's very name,/Had, in her solitude, been cheered." This devotion motivates her to seek solace at the watch-tower, the place that she had been asked to protect his honor and memory. The "old man’s" story of Francis’s actions in defying Sussex, by wresting the banner from the soldier assigned to taunt him, confirms the strong bond of family and the strength of character that allowed him to defy his captors, even if only briefly.

The Banner as a Symbol of Lost Ideals

The banner is a recurring and potent symbol within the poem. Initially intended as an "offering of glad victory" to Bolton Priory, it becomes a symbol of the Nortons' shattered aspirations and their ultimately doomed rebellion. It represents their vision of a "renovation from the dead," a return to traditional religious values. However, its capture by the authorities and subsequent rescue by Francis transforms it into a symbol of defiance and the enduring strength of their convictions. The banner's intended destination, Bolton Priory, suggests a longing for a return to a simpler, more devout past, a yearning for a lost sense of spiritual wholeness. What will happen to the banner is not explained. Will it, eventually, get to its intended destination? This open-ended ending adds a layer of ambiguity and invites further contemplation.

Conclusion: Seeds of Hope in a Bleak Landscape

In conclusion, "The White Doe of Rylstone 5" is a complex and moving exploration of loss, faith, and the resilience of the human spirit. Through vivid imagery, powerful symbolism, and a narrative steeped in historical context, Wordsworth crafts a poem that resonates with enduring themes of grief, duty, and the potential for redemption. While the poem acknowledges the devastating consequences of the Norton family's actions, it ultimately offers a glimmer of hope, suggesting that even in the darkest of times, faith and love can provide solace and strength. The image of Emily, walking towards Rylstone-hall, offers a subtle hint that healing and a new beginning, though hard-won, may be possible.