the charge of the light brigade Flashcards
(90 cards)
What does the rhythm of the poem resemble?
Galloping horses’ hooves
This rhythm gives the impression that the horses are unstoppable.
How are the soldiers depicted in the poem?
As one group with one purpose
They realize the order was a mistake but obey due to their duty.
What biblical reference is mentioned in the poem?
Psalm 23: ‘Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil’
This reference adds a solemn and significant tone to the poem.
What effect does the repetition of the line at the end of the first three stanzas create?
Adds to the sense of foreboding
It also reminds readers of the number of soldiers.
What were the cavalry armed with against the Russian guns?
Swords
This highlights the disadvantage faced by the cavalry.
What literary device is used to emphasize the soldiers’ obedience?
Repetition
It reflects their sense of duty, despite knowing the risks.
What does the rhetorical question in the poem challenge the reader to do?
Honor the cavalry
This command reinforces the bravery of the soldiers.
Fill in the blank: The poem describes the soldiers as riding into the valley of _______.
Death
What imagery is created by the phrase ‘Into the jaws of Death’?
Personification of death
It makes death seem like a monster the soldiers cannot escape.
What does the repetition of ‘Cannon to right of them, Cannon to left of them’ convey?
The soldiers are surrounded by enemy guns
It also replicates the sound of gunfire.
What is the significance of the phrase ‘Not the six hundred’?
Indicates lives lost
It creates a somber tone reflecting on the casualties.
What dual meaning does the phrase ‘All the world wonder’d’ hold?
Admiration for bravery or questioning the military decision
This reflects the mixed feelings about the charge.
What year was the poem written, and in response to what?
1854, in response to a newspaper article about the battle
It focuses on soldier bravery rather than military mistakes.
What type of verbs are used to describe the noise from the cannons?
Powerful, onomatopoeic verbs
They enhance the dramatic effect of the battle.
What does the use of sibilance in the poem emphasize?
The idea of ammunition flying towards the soldiers
It sounds vicious and adds to the tension.
Define ‘sabres’.
Long curved swords
Define ‘battery’ in the context of the poem.
A group of cannons
Define ‘Cossack’.
A warrior from southern Russia and Ukraine
What does the rhythm of the poem resemble?
Galloping horses’ hooves
This rhythm gives the impression that the horses are unstoppable.
How are the soldiers depicted in the poem?
As one group with one purpose
They realize the order was a mistake but obey due to their duty.
What biblical reference is mentioned in the poem?
Psalm 23: ‘Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil’
This reference adds a solemn and significant tone to the poem.
What effect does the repetition of the line at the end of the first three stanzas create?
Adds to the sense of foreboding
It also reminds readers of the number of soldiers.
What were the cavalry armed with against the Russian guns?
Swords
This highlights the disadvantage faced by the cavalry.
What literary device is used to emphasize the soldiers’ obedience?
Repetition
It reflects their sense of duty, despite knowing the risks.