Alfred Lord Tennyson – Ulysses
Ulysses (1842) is one of the most celebrated poems by Alfred Lord Tennyson. Written in the form of a dramatic monologue, the poem presents the legendary Greek hero Ulysses (Odysseus) in old age, dissatisfied with a life of rest and eager to continue his quest for experience and knowledge.
The poem reflects Victorian ideals of heroism, perseverance, and the unending pursuit of excellence.
Background and Source
The poem is inspired by Homer’s Odyssey and Dante’s Inferno. Unlike Homer’s Ulysses, who returns home contentedly, Tennyson’s Ulysses feels restless and unfulfilled.
The poem was written after the death of Tennyson’s close friend Arthur Hallam, and it reflects the poet’s struggle to find purpose in the face of loss.
Central Idea
The poem celebrates:
- the spirit of adventure
- the thirst for knowledge
- the refusal to surrender to age and stagnation
Ulysses believes that life’s value lies in continuous striving, not passive contentment.
Nature of the Dramatic Monologue
The poem qualifies as a dramatic monologue because:
- Ulysses is the sole speaker
- the listener (his people or mariners) remains silent
- the speaker’s character is revealed through his speech
Ulysses unconsciously reveals his pride, restlessness, and heroic determination.
Idea-wise Summary
1. Discontent with Domestic Life
Ulysses finds his life as a king dull and meaningless. He feels wasted ruling over people who:
- are passive
- lack ambition
- live routine lives
For Ulysses, mere existence without action is spiritual death.
2. Love of Adventure and Experience
Ulysses reflects on his past adventures and travels. He believes that experience sharpens identity and knowledge.
He declares:
“I am a part of all that I have met.”
This line suggests that life is enriched by varied experiences.
3. Hunger for Knowledge
Ulysses compares knowledge to an ever-receding horizon. No matter how much one learns, more remains to be explored.
The pursuit of knowledge is endless and defines human greatness.
4. Telemachus and Duty
Ulysses speaks of his son, Telemachus, whom he considers better suited for:
- governing the kingdom
- maintaining social order
- performing domestic duties
Ulysses respects duty but does not wish to be confined by it.
5. Final Call to Adventure
In the closing lines, Ulysses addresses his old companions and urges them to sail once more.
Despite old age, he insists:
- their will remains strong
- their spirit is unbroken
The poem ends with the famous resolve:
“To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.”
This line captures the essence of Victorian heroism.
Major Themes
- Heroic Will – refusal to surrender to age
- Quest for Knowledge – lifelong learning
- Restlessness – dissatisfaction with stagnation
- Duty vs Adventure – contrast between Telemachus and Ulysses
- Victorian Idealism – faith in effort and perseverance
Style and Form
- dramatic monologue
- blank verse
- elevated yet conversational tone
- classical allusions
Tennyson’s language is dignified, rhythmic, and inspirational.
Critical Appreciation
- The poem embodies Victorian optimism and determination.
- Ulysses may also be seen as selfish and escapist.
- The ambiguity adds depth to the character.
- The poem redefines heroism for the modern age.
Significance of the Poem
- one of Tennyson’s most quoted poems
- a powerful statement of human aspiration
- merges classical myth with Victorian values
- central text in Victorian poetry
Quick Revision Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Poet | Alfred Lord Tennyson |
| Poem | Ulysses |
| Form | Dramatic monologue |
| Speaker | Ulysses |
| Main Theme | Striving beyond limits |
| Famous Line | To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield |
| Age | Victorian |
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