Social Injustice and Class Inequality Flashcards
(10 cards)
intro
William Blake’s poem London offers a powerful critique of the social and political inequalities of 18th-century London. Through vivid imagery and a strong tone, Blake highlights the harsh realities faced by the poor and oppressed, especially in terms of class and social injustice. The poem captures the suffering of the urban poor, making it clear that they are trapped in a system that keeps them shackled, unable to escape. Throughout the poem, Blake uses a range of literary techniques to expose these societal flaws and give a voice to those who are silenced.
“Marks of weakness, marks of woe”
“Marks of weakness, marks of woe”
Blake describes the faces of people in London as bearing “marks of weakness, marks of woe.” The repetition of “marks” emphasizes how the suffering of the poor is visible and etched into their features. This suggests that the suffering is permanent and marks them in a way that shows their social class and poverty. The tone here is sorrowful, highlighting the emotional weight of their struggles. Blake uses this imagery to demonstrate how social inequality affects not just the material conditions of the poor but also their emotional and psychological well-being.
“The mind-forg’d manacles I hear”
“The mind-forg’d manacles I hear”
In this line, Blake introduces the metaphor of “mind-forg’d manacles,” which suggests that people’s minds are trapped by the oppressive systems of power that limit their ability to think freely or escape their social position. The “manacles” are not physical but mental, reinforcing the theme of social injustice. The tone here is one of anger and frustration, as Blake criticizes the way society binds people, even in their thoughts. This line shows how class inequality is deeply ingrained in society, controlling the very way people think and perceive themselves.
“How the Chimney-sweepers cry”
“How the Chimney-sweepers cry”
Blake uses the image of the chimney-sweeper’s cry to highlight the exploitation of child labor during this time. The “cry” of the chimney-sweeper is a symbol of the pain and suffering of young children who are forced to work in dangerous, degrading conditions. The tone is one of pity and outrage, calling attention to the cruelty faced by the most vulnerable in society. This line exposes the social class divide, where the wealthy benefit from the labor of the poor, and the poor are condemned to lives of suffering from a young age.
“Every blackning Church appalls”
“Every blackning Church appalls”
Blake criticizes the Church, which is supposed to be a place of sanctuary and moral guidance, by saying it is “blackning.” The use of “blackning” suggests that the Church, rather than helping the poor, is corrupt and complicit in the suffering of the lower classes. The tone is accusatory and disillusioned, as Blake points out that the Church, which is supposed to be an institution of justice and compassion, has instead become a symbol of moral decay and hypocrisy.
“And the hapless Soldiers sigh”
“And the hapless Soldiers sigh”
Blake’s use of “hapless soldiers” emphasizes the helplessness and suffering of those who fight in wars, likely the poor, who have no choice but to serve. Their “sighs” reflect the weariness and despair of soldiers who are often sent to die in wars that serve the interests of the powerful, rather than any sense of justice or honor. The tone here is one of sorrow and frustration, as Blake draws attention to the exploitation of the working class, who are forced into roles of violence and sacrifice without any benefit.
“Blasts the new-born Infants tear”
“Blasts the new-born Infants tear”
Blake contrasts the suffering of the “youthful harlot” with the “new-born infant’s tear.” The use of “blast” suggests that the young prostitute’s curses are powerful enough to harm the next generation, symbolizing how the social issues affecting one generation are passed down to the next. The tone here is tragic, reflecting how poverty, class inequality, and moral corruption impact the most innocent and vulnerable members of society—newborn babies. This highlights the long-lasting effects of social injustice.
structure
The structure of London contributes to the overall theme of social injustice and class inequality. The poem is written in quatrains with a regular ABAB rhyme scheme, which gives the poem a sense of rhythm and uniformity. However, this regularity also serves to emphasize the monotonous and unchanging nature of the suffering described. The repetition of certain words and phrases, such as “marks,” “cry,” and “sigh,” further reinforces the idea that the suffering of the poor is a constant, unrelenting presence. This structure mirrors the confinement and lack of escape experienced by those trapped in the cycle of poverty and oppression.
context
Blake wrote London during the Industrial Revolution, a time when social inequality was at its peak. The city was rapidly industrializing, and the poor were exploited in factories, in child labor, and through brutal working conditions. At the same time, the rich grew wealthier, and the gap between the classes widened. Blake’s critique of institutions like the Church and the government reflects his disillusionment with the social structures that perpetuated these injustices. The poem uses the city of London as a symbol for the moral decay and social corruption that Blake saw around him, making it clear that class inequality was a systemic issue that needed to be addressed.
conclusion
In conclusion, Blake’s London powerfully critiques the social injustices and class inequalities of 18th-century England. Through vivid imagery, metaphor, and a tone of sorrow and outrage, Blake exposes the harsh realities of life for the poor in London. The poem serves as a call to action, urging readers to recognize the widespread suffering and oppression caused by an unjust social system. Blake’s exploration of the themes of class inequality and social injustice remains relevant even today, as it speaks to the ongoing struggle for equality and human rights.
