Table of contentsIntroductionEnclosure in "The Lady of Shalott"Liberation and dichotomy of shadows and lightUlysses: the enclosure of return HomeThe Palace of Art: Isolation and FragmentationConclusionWorks CitedIntroductionThe theme of enclosure or entrapment permeates the poetry of Alfred, Lord Tennyson, providing a lens through which we can examine the complexities of human existence . This essay delves deeper into the notion of enclosure in Tennyson's "The Lady of Shalott" and explores its manifestations in other poems such as "Ulysses" and "The Palace of Art." Through critical analysis, we study subjects' tacit acceptance of these states and subsequent fragmentation of the self, ultimately leading to either entrapment or liberation. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”?Get the original essayEnclosure in “The Lady of Shalott”In “The Lady of Shalott,” the eponymous heroine finds herself confined in a tower at edge of a river. island, forced to weave images that she sees in a mirror. Her entrapment is both literal and physical, as she cannot leave her tower due to an unexplained mystical force. Surprisingly, the Lady seems content with her situation, deriving pleasure from her work: “But in her web she still delights in weaving the magical views of her mirror. » However, a dichotomous relationship emerges between the Lady and the outside world. Shalott and the tower symbolize stillness, while the world by the river is constantly changing. This contrast extends to the color palette, with the Lady's monochrome environment juxtaposed against the vibrant hues of the real world. His entrapment forces him to engage with life through a proxy, as his creations become his interpretation of reality. Interestingly, the Lady's acceptance of her predicament appears to be tacit, driven by an inner desire to achieve perfection within her limitations. This notion is illustrated by her uncertainty regarding the curse that binds her, as she "heard a whisper say it." Her imprisonment is a form of self-imposed slavery to her art and creation, in which she actively participates. In the third part of the poem, the Lady rejects her imprisonment upon seeing Sir Lancelot by the river. Lancelot's image, like the Lady's mirror, is dazzling and reflects light, contrasting sharply with the shadows presented by his static mirror. Lancelot becomes the catalyst for his discontent, leading to his eventual escape. Liberation and the Dichotomy of Dark and Light The journey from enclosure to liberation in “The Lady of Shalott” is characterized by a dichotomy between dark and light. The Lady's initial acceptance of her predicament is marked by her commitment to weaving the "magical views" presented by her mirror. Yet it becomes clear that these visions are mere shadows of the real world, devoid of personal experience or true connection. Lancelot, as a symbol of the outside world, shatters this illusion. His presence is described in radiant terms: “All in the blue, cloudless weather. Thick jewelry gleamed on the leather of the saddle, the helmet and the helmet feather burned together like a single fiery flame. » Here, Lancelot is not a shadow but a living manifestation of reality, defying the complacency of the Lady. It is crucial to note that Lancelot's impact is not just aural but primarily visual. The Lady's mirror, static and limited in its capacity to capture the richness of life, can only offer shadows. On the other hand, Lancelot's armor, like a moving mirror,reflects the light of the world. When "reflected in the crystal mirror", the Lady's world changes irreversibly. The mirror, previously a source of comfort, becomes a symbol of its enclosure. The Lady of Shalott's escape marks her transition to liberation, albeit a bittersweet one. Physically, she never touches the bank but remains in the boat. Her attire also undergoes a transformation from monochrome purity to vibrant reds and purples. This change demonstrates a maturation of freedom, where she accepts it on her own terms. Notably, the Lady takes the time to write her name on the boat – a deliberate affirmation and validation of her identity. She no longer relies on the mirror or the shadows it produces but embraces the outside world, even if it leads to her eventual demise. Ulysses: The Homecoming Enclosure In “Ulysses,” Tennyson explores a different form of enclosure: Ulysses' desire for the freedom of travel and adventure. Paradoxically, Odysseus laments the “freedom” of staying at home and ruling his country, longing for the excitement and diversity of a life filled with travel and war. His identity is marked by a gap between the static life at home and the dynamic experiences he once enjoyed. Odysseus' lament reflects his understanding that his identity has become fragmented, making him a king whose people do not know him. He consciously chooses to entrust his rule to Telemachus, recognizing that his true personality lies in adventure and exploration. The polarity of his experiences, both great and painful, add depth to his laments. The Palace of Art: Isolation and Fragmentation “The Palace of Art” depicts a lonely girl living in a splendid palace, indulging in various experiences. Similar to “The Lady of Shalott”, this young girl bends to her solitude and assumes her duty to perfect the artistic soul. His acceptance of isolation suggests an intrinsic belief in the necessity of his isolation. However, the poem alludes to an unexplained change in the girl's disposition, leading to her downfall after three years of contentment. Unlike “The Lady of Shalott,” her trap results from a lack of personal experience and human connection. The fate of the girl in “The Palace of Art” serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of isolation and detachment from human experience. While she initially flourishes in her artistic solitude, the lack of true human connection ultimately leads to her tragic demise. Her story highlights the importance of balancing personal solitude and social engagement. Conclusion Alfred, Lord Tennyson's poems, including 'The Lady of Shalott', 'Ulysses' and 'The Palace of Art', delve deeper into the themes of enclosure and liberation. The subjects of these poems often accept their trapped state with a sense of tacit conformity. Over time, this acceptance can give way to fragmentation of the self, prompting deliberate actions aimed at altering their destiny. In “The Lady of Shalott,” the Lady’s contentment changes upon seeing Sir Lancelot, while “Ulysses” depicts a king longing for his former adventurous life. “The Palace of Art” explores the isolation of a young girl, which ultimately leads to her downfall. These poems offer profound insight into the human condition, highlighting the complexities of self-acceptance and the desire for personal liberation. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay As we contemplate the on themes of confinement and liberation in Tennyson's poetry, we remember the enduring human quest for authenticity and discovery of. 133.