Question

What was recollected on the face of the statue of Ozymandias

• A. Calmness
• B. Might and Contempt
• C. KIndness
• D. Grace

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Might and Contempt

The poem "Ozymandias" by Percy Bysshe Shelley

• It is a sonnet, a popular form for poetry during the Romantic era.
• The poem critiques the transience of power and the vanity of rulers.
• It was written in 1817 and published in 1818, during a period of political upheaval in Europe.

The Statue of Ozymandias

• The poem describes a shattered statue in a desolate desert.
• The statue is of a once-powerful king, Ozymandias (the Greek name for Ramesses II of Egypt).
• Despite the king's boastful inscription, only fragments of the statue remain.

The Inscription and its Tone

• The inscription on the pedestal reads: "My name is Ozymandias, king of kings: / Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair!".
• The words were intended to inspire awe and fear in all who beheld his empire.
• However, the surrounding desert emphasizes the futility of his boast, as his works have crumbled to dust.

Facial Expression of the Statue

• The sculptor accurately captured the king's personality.
• The shattered visage (face) conveys the ruler's arrogance and disdain for his subjects and rivals.
• This expression, combined with the ruins, powerfully illustrates the ultimate downfall of even the most powerful rulers.
• The elements of might (implied by his former power and boast) and contempt (reflected in his facial expression) are key to understanding the poem's message.

Literary Significance

• The poem is a classic example of Romantic poetry, focusing on themes of nature's power over human endeavors and the passage of time.
• It serves as a cautionary tale about hubris and the ephemeral nature of political power.
• Often studied in competitive exams for its thematic depth and poetic craftsmanship.