The Windhover Character
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The Speaker (Gerard Manley Hopkins)
Narrator
Also known as: The Poet, Gerard Manley Hopkins
Deeply spiritual
Emotionally sensitive
Observant
Faithful
The speaker is the poet Gerard Manley Hopkins himself. He observes a falcon flying in the sky and is moved by deep emotion and spiritual insight. He interprets the bird's flight as a reflection of Christ's glory, expressing wonder, faith, and spiritual joy through his words.
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The Windhover
Symbolic
Also known as: The Falcon
Graceful
Powerful
Skillful
Beautiful
The Windhover is a type of falcon that flies high in the sky with remarkable skill and beauty. The poet perceives it as more than an ordinary bird, elevating it to a symbol of power, control, and divine beauty. It ultimately serves as a symbolic representation of Christ himself.
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Christ
Symbolic
Glorious
Strong
Sacrificial
Graceful
Christ is not directly depicted in the poem but is present in spirit throughout. The falcon's strong and graceful flight reminds the poet of Christ's strength and sacrifice. The bird's beauty and action are seen as reflections of Christ's divine glory.