Alfred Tennyson's The Lady Of Shalott

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“The Lady of Shalott,” an accurate portrayal of Camelot’s society parallels the Lady of Shalott’s character and character changes. The plot foreshadows a change with the Lady of Shalott, along with Camelot. Similarly, the imagery and diction supports the transition of events and character traits for the Lady. “The Lady of Shalott,” a poem by Alfred Tennyson, portrays a transition from isolation to desire, and develops the relationship the Lady of Shalott possesses with the world, through the use of imagery, mood, diction, and symbolism. The Lady of Shalott’s character towards the beginning of the poem possesses a separation from the world. The extent of her daily activities consists only of weaving. Also, the society of Camelot is described, as “and up and down the people go, Gazing where the lilies blow Round an island there below, The island of Shalott” (6-9). The quotation describes the nature and peace of the village. Also, in part one, the innocence and tranquility over the natural effect are brought about by the diction of the section, such as “whispers,” “gazing,” and “quiver.” These words are used to describe the astonishment and sights of Camelot. By Tennyson using the word “whispers,” the diction begins to …show more content…

The imagery of the lines creates an unique mood for the author; one that can be perceived as the Lady making a name for herself, or identifying with her doom, as she marks her own tombstone. The Lady of Shalott continues down to Camelot, as “they heard her singing her last song…. till her blood was frozen slowly, and her eyes were darkened wholly…” (143-148). These lines, being a powerful transition and image of the story, describe the fate the Lady has when she interacts with the world. The imagery involved describes almost a voluntary passing, as she freezes her blood and sings herself to