and the loss of individuality and purpose in modern society Crowds of Ordinary People Symbolize the anonymity and the dehumanized masses of the th century contrasting with the individualized heroes of ancient times Boys Killing Each Other Depicts senseless violence and the cyclical nature of human conflict devoid of the glory associated with classical warfare Ritual of Sacrifice Symbolizes the loss of sacred rituals and the transformation of meaningful traditions into empty gestures Iron Hearted Man Represents modern man's cold unfeeling nature driven by efficiency and devoid of empathy and humanity Athens and Sparta These cities traditionally symbolize the pinnacle of ancient civilization culture and discipline In the poem their evocation highlights the contrast between the past's glory and the present's bleakness Auden critiques the modern world through these symbols emphasizing the stark departure from the values and ideals celebrated in classical times The poem becomes a powerful commentary on the disillusionment and moral decay of the contemporary era