The Scholar Gipsy

Poetry | Matthew Arnold

Arnold’s Theory of Poetry as a Criticism of Life.

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Discuss Arnold s theory of poetry as a criticism of life or Arnold s criticism of life in The Scholar Gipsy Matthew Arnold - is a prominent Victorian poet He believed that poetry should be a criticism of life This means poetry should reflect analyze and critique the realities and conditions of human existence In The Scholar-Gipsy Arnold exemplifies this theory through his exploration of modern life versus an idealized simpler existence Here are points that illustrate how the poem serves as a criticism of life Critique of Modern Life's Discontent Arnold uses the Scholar-Gipsy to highlight the dissatisfaction and weariness of modern existence He describes modern life in such a way This strange disease of modern life With its sick hurry its divided aims These lines emphasize how contemporary society is characterized by extreme busyness and lack of direction This leads to a deep sense of unhappiness and weariness

Contrast with an Idealized Past The poem presents the Scholar-Gipsy's life as a contrast to the chaos of modern life The Scholar-Gipsy embodies a focused and purposeful existence He is free from the distractions and pressures of contemporary society Arnold writes Thou hadst one aim one business one desire This highlights a life devoted to a singular meaningful quest This contrast criticizes the fragmented nature of modern pursuits It suggests a longing for a simpler more dedicated way of living Reflection on Immortality and Purpose Arnold reflects on how the Scholar-Gipsy's relentless pursuit grants him a form of immortality He is untouched by the wear and tear of time Arnold states Thou hast not lived why should'st thou perish so This line indicates that because the Scholar-Gipsy has not surrendered to the exhausting nature of modern life He remains timeless In The Scholar-Gipsy Matthew Arnold uses the poem to reveal the scholar-gipsy's purposeful existence Through this contrast Arnold's poetry powerfully reflects on and criticizes the human condition nbsp

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