THE TYGER - ANALYSIS Flashcards
(22 cards)
Who is the speaker addressing in the poem “The Tyger”?
The speaker is addressing the Tyger itself.
What structure does the poem have?
Six quatrains with an AABB rhyme scheme.
What is the tone of the poem?
Mysterious, awe-inspired, questioning, and dark.
Where and when does the poem take place?
In the “forests of the night”, symbolizing mystery and danger.
What does “burning bright” suggest about the Tyger?
It evokes intense energy, beauty, and a potentially destructive force.
What is the meaning of the oxymoron “fearful symmetry”?
It highlights the Tyger’s terrifying yet perfect design.
What does “the fire of thine eyes” symbolize?
Passion, energy, possibly anger, and divine power.
What metaphor is used in “furnace was thy brain”?
It compares the Tyger’s brain to metal forged in a furnace, suggesting violent creation.
What is the personification in “stars threw down their spears / And watered heaven with their tears”?
Stars are given human actions—surrender and weeping—implying a cosmic tragedy.
What main question does the speaker ask throughout the poem?
Who (or what) could or would dare create such a powerful and terrifying creature?
How is the Tyger’s creator described?
As immortal, powerful, possibly divine, and daring—similar to a blacksmith.
What shift occurs between the first and last stanza?
The verb changes from “Could frame” to “Dare frame”, adding moral and emotional weight.
How are the Tyger and the Lamb similar?
Both are creations, possibly by the same divine being.
How are they different?
The Lamb represents innocence and gentleness; the Tyger represents power, fear, and experience.
Why does the poet compare the Tyger with the Lamb?
To question whether the same Creator could make both good and evil.
What are the main themes of “The Tyger”?
Creation, the nature of God, the coexistence of good and evil, awe, and mystery.
Does the poem provide any clear answers?
No—it is filled with rhetorical questions to emphasize mystery and ambiguity.
Why does Blake ask if the Creator “smiled” at His work?
To question whether the Creator was proud or horrified by His powerful creation.
Which word refers to the Tyger’s perfection?
“Symmetry”.
What expressions suggest Nature’s power can be frightening?
“Fearful symmetry”, “burning bright”, “dread hand”, “deadly terrors”.
Which verbs suggest Nature’s violence?
Burnt, seize, twist, beat, clasp.
What message does Blake convey about Nature?
Nature is perfect but also terrifying, and must be respected for its power and duality.
