The Charge of the Light Brigade

The Charge of the Light Brigade

1. Content

   • Describes disastrous battle between British cavalry and Russian forces.

2. Themes, Attitudes, Ideas

   • Admiration
     • Admires the bravery and sacrifice of the men
       • Theirs not to make reply, Theirs not to reason why, Theirs but to do and die
       • Present the view that taking orders and serving one's country is honourable
         • When can their glory fade?
   • Disgust/ Disbelief
     • Some one had blunder'd

3. Language offers balance between the two types

   • Violent
     • Describes the situation "the six hundred" faced
       • "Sabre stroke shatter'd and sunder'd"
         • Alliteration of "S" Hissing Sibilance signifies evil.
           • In his case it reflects the viciousness of the attack
   • Heroic
     • Celebrates "the six hundred"
       • L23. Boldly they rode and well
       • L55. Noble
       • L53, 54 Honour

4. Form

   • Third person
     • Gives feel of a story
   • Rhythm
     • Strong, regular creates fast pace
       • Imitates cavalry and energy of battle

5. Structure

   • Repetition
     • L8,38, 49, 54 "The six hundred"
       • Reminder of the large number of men at the battle and creates a chaotic image