Question 1: Briefly describe the historical and social context in which William Blake wrote 'London'.

Answer: William Blake wrote 'London' in 1794 during the Industrial Revolution, highlighting social inequality, urban poverty, and the oppressive nature of industrialised London.

Question 1: Analyze the meaning of the line: 'I wander thro' each charter'd street, / Near where the charter'd Thames does flow.' What does the repetition of 'charter'd' suggest?

Answer: The repetition of 'charter'd' emphasizes the sense of ownership and control over the city and its natural features, suggesting a loss of freedom and the pervasive influence of authority.

Question 2: What is the significance of the 'black'ning church' and 'blood down palace walls' in the poem?

Answer: These images symbolize corruption and violence in institutions of power—church and monarchy—highlighting societal decay and moral decline.

Question 1: Quote: 'Every black'ning church appalls,'

Answer: The word 'black'ning' is a metaphor for moral corruption; it personifies the church as being tainted by societal sins, creating a visual image of decay that shocks the reader.

Question 2: Quote: 'Runs in blood down palace walls,'

Answer: This vivid imagery uses 'blood' to symbolize violence and suffering associated with authority and power, suggesting that oppression results in bloodshed and pain.

Question 1: How does Blake depict the theme of power and control in the poem?

Answer: Blake depicts power as oppressive and corrupt, shown through images of soldiers, the church, and monarchs, all contributing to social suffering and loss of individual freedom.

Question 2: Identify how the theme of urban decay and despair is presented in the poem.

Answer: Urban decay is illustrated through images of 'charter'd' streets, 'black'ning' churches, and the 'mind-forged manacles' symbolizing mental imprisonment and societal decline.

Question 1: Describe the form of 'London' and how Blake's use of structure enhances its themes.

Answer: The poem is composed of quatrains with a regular rhyme scheme, creating a rhythmic, relentless flow that mirrors the inescapable suffering and oppression described.

Question 1: Identify key similarities and differences in how power is portrayed in 'London' and 'Ozymandias'. Use bullet points to plan your response.

Answer: Similarities include the critique of corrupt authority; differences involve 'London's' focus on societal suffering and 'Ozymandias'' emphasis on the fleeting nature of power and pride. Planning should include specific quotes and themes.

Question 1: Write a brief essay plan comparing how Blake and the chosen poet explore the theme of power and its effects on society.

Answer: Introduction: Both poems critique power—Blake focuses on societal oppression, the other on individual pride. Body: Use quotes like 'mind-forged manacles' (London) and 'king's illusion' (Ozymandias). Conclusion: Both reveal power's transient nature and destructive influence.