"London" Context Flashcards
(12 cards)
Who wrote “London”?
William Blake
When was “London” Published?
1794
What were William Blake’s key beliefs?
He was deeply critical of government, organized religion, and industrialization. He believed in individual freedom, imagination, and social justice.
What was “London” like in the late 18th century?
It was overcrowded, polluted, and poverty-stricken, with child labour, disease, and widespread inequality.
How did the Industrial Revolution influence “London”?
It led to urban poverty, harsh working conditions, and exploitation, which Blake criticizes through his bleak portrayal of the city.
How does the poem reflect political unrest?
Blake was influenced by the French Revolution and supported revolution against oppressive systems, which is reflected in his anger at the Church, monarchy, and state.
What is Blake’s view of the Church in “London”?
He saw it as corrupt and hypocritical, shown in the line “the black’ning Church appalls”—criticizing how the Church ignored the suffering of the poor.
How does Blake criticize institutions in the poem?
He attacks the monarchy (“runs in blood down Palace walls”), the Church, and government for their role in keeping people oppressed and suffering.
How is “London” influenced by Romanticism?
Romantic poets like Blake often focused on emotion, nature, and criticized industrial society. London expresses deep emotional anger at how society dehumanizes people.
How did Blake’s spiritual beliefs shape London?
Though deeply spiritual, Blake rejected organized religion, especially the Church of England, which he saw as complicit in ignoring or justifying social injustice.
Why didn’t Blake directly name the king or government in “London”?
At the time, criticizing authority could be dangerous. Blake used imagery and metaphor (like “palace walls”) to avoid censorship while still attacking the abuse of power.
When was William Blake born and when did he die?
He was born in 1757 and died in 1827.(70 Years Old)
