Ode to Psyche

Poetry | John Keats
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How does Keats describe the beauty of Psyche? 

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How does Keats describe the beauty of Psyche? 

Or, how does Keats praise the beauty of Psyche?

In “Ode to Psyche” (1820), John Keats (1795-1821) praises Psyche as the most beautiful goddess. He sees her in a dream with Cupid. Her beauty is soft, pure, and full of love. Keats uses gentle words and pictures from nature to show her charm.

Psyche as a Lovely and Youngest Goddess: Psyche is the youngest and most beautiful among all the gods of Olympus. So, Keats begins the poem calling her, 

“O latest born and loveliest vision far.” 

Her face shines more brightly than the moon and evening star. He says that Psyche is more beautiful than the moon, Phoebe, and the bright evening star, Vesper, in the sky. This shows her heavenly beauty.

Physical Beauty of Psyche: Keats sees Psyche’s physical beauty in his imagination. He sees Phyche and Cupid lying side by side

in a quiet forest. He says, 

“Saw two fair creatures, couched side by side

In deepest grass.” 

The forest is full of flowers, soft wind, and silence. Psyche’s beauty shines in this peaceful place. She looks calm, gentle, and pure, like the soul itself.

The spiritual beauty of Psyche: Keats does not only see her outer beauty. He feels her inner light and spirit. She is kind, loving, and full of soul. Her wings are called “lucent fans,” which means shining and delicate. Her beauty is spiritual, not just physical. She is both woman and goddess, both love and soul.

Keats praises Psyche’s beauty with deep love and respect. Her charm is not only in her looks but also in her purity and spirit. To Keats, Psyche is the perfect image of divine beauty and eternal love.

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