Elegy: The Comparison

Question 1

Overview:

Answer 1

A somewhat paradoxical poem as the speaker mocks the physical qualities of his friend’s lover, whilst praising the attributes of his own. The argument of the comparison however is undermined at the end of the poem as the speaker describes comparisons as being odious.

Question 2

Stanley Fish:

Answer 2

“The two women become indistinguishably monstrous as the poem progresses.”

Question 3

Form:

Answer 3

• Use of the blazon and the counter blazon - highlights the duality of the poem.

Question 4

Speaker lover elevated to an ethereal status:

Answer 4

• overglorification of the women - her every action and scent is perfect - uses a series of renaissance images to convey the perfection of his lover.