POEM
4. No Second Troy
By William Butler Yeats
SUMMARY
"No Second Troy" is a poignant poem by W.B.
Yeats, written during the poet's second phase, which marked a shift in his
poetic style and themes. The poem delves into complex emotions, historical
allusions, and personal reflections, combining them to create a powerful
exploration of love, disillusionment, and the inevitability of destruction.
The title of the poem refers to the ancient city of
Troy, a symbol of tragic conflict, loss, and the fall of a civilization. The
poem begins with a speaker who grapples with mixed feelings about a woman,
likely referencing Maud Gonne, Yeats' unrequited love and a figure of political
activism. The speaker asks why he should blame her for the misery she brought
into his life or the influence she wielded over people to incite violence. This
mirrors the way Helen of Troy, through her beauty, sparked the Trojan War,
leading to the devastation of Troy.
The speaker ponders whether the woman's noble and fiery
nature, akin to a tightened bow, was unsuited for the modern world. He
questions whether her qualities of strength and individuality, which are out of
place in their time, were destined to provoke controversy and misunderstanding.
He wonders if there was an alternate destiny for her, if there was another
"Troy" for her to bring to ruin.
The lines "Was there another Troy for her to
burn?" serve as a metaphor for the destruction that follows powerful and
captivating women throughout history. The speaker acknowledges that while he
may resent the turmoil caused by this woman's influence, it is also part of her
extraordinary nature. He acknowledges the allure of her character and the
inevitability of the role she plays in sparking conflicts, much like Helen's
role in the Trojan War.
"No Second Troy" is a masterful blend of
personal feelings and historical allusions. Yeats uses the story of Helen and
Troy to explore the destructive power of beauty, passion, and unconventional
ideals. The poem encapsulates the tensions between love and resentment,
admiration and disillusionment, and the dual nature of individuals who
challenge societal norms. Through its vivid imagery, profound questions, and
emotional resonance, the poem remains a striking example of Yeats' ability to
intertwine personal experiences with broader themes of history, myth, and human
nature.
A. Multiple Choice Questions
1. According to the speaker, the woman
filled the head of the common men with the ideas of....
a) peace
b) violence
c) greed
d) indifference
2. The speaker says that the woman had
left him in........
a) hopelessness
b) sadness
c) happiness
d) affluence
3. The woman was
exceptionally.............................
a) clever
b) beautiful
c) ugly
d) cunning
4. The poem No Second Troy is written
in...................meter.
a) iambic
b) trochaic
c) anapestic
d) dactylic
5. In the poem 'Troy has been used
as..........................
a) a metaphor
b) a symbol
c) an allusion
d) an anachronism
Extra MCQs
1. "No Second Troy" was
written during which phase of W.B. Yeats' poetic journey?
a) First
phase
b) Second
phase
c) Third
phase
d) Final
phase
2. What is the main theme explored in
"No Second Troy"?
a) Nature's
beauty
b) Political
activism
c) Love and
disillusionment
d) Historical
battles
3. The title "No Second Troy"
refers to which ancient city?
a) Athens
b) Rome
c) Sparta
d) Troy
4. Who is the likely inspiration for the
woman mentioned in the poem?
a) Maud Gonne
b) Helen of
Troy
c) Yeats'
mother
d) An unknown
figure
5. The speaker of the poem questions why
he should blame the woman for what?
a) Causing
happiness
b) Bringing
peace
c) Spreading
joy
d) Inflicting
misery
6. What historical event is referenced
to parallel the woman's influence?
a) The
American Revolution
b) The French
Revolution
c) The Trojan
War
d) World War
I
7. The woman's qualities are compared to
what in the poem?
a) A storm
b) A flame
c) A river
d) A mountain
8. The speaker wonders if the woman's
nature is suited for what type of world?
a) Modern
b) Ancient
c) Futuristic
d) Medieval
9. The phrase "Was there another
Troy for her to burn?" is used as a metaphor for what?
a) Love's
destruction
b) Political
upheaval
c) Historical
conflicts
d) Personal
achievement
10. The poem suggests that the woman's
influence might lead to what outcome?
a) Unity and
peace
b) Calm and
serenity
c)
Destruction and conflict
d) Progress
and innovation
11. What emotion does the speaker feel
towards the woman's influence?
a) Admiration
b)
Indifference
c) Joy
d) Resentment
12. What does the woman's "noble
and fiery nature" resemble in the poem?
a) A candle
b) A bow
c) A flower
d) A river
13. What societal norm does the woman
challenge, similar to Helen of Troy?
a) Gender
roles
b) Political
systems
c) Economic
structures
d) Religious
beliefs
14. The poem "No Second Troy"
is described as a blend of what elements?
a) Music and
dance
b) Comedy and
tragedy
c) Personal
experiences and historical references
d) Mythology
and science fiction
15. The poem explores the tensions
between which pairs of concepts?
a) Love and
hate
b) Hope and
despair
c) Unity and
division
d) Wealth and
poverty
B. Short Questions
1. Who does the speaker blame for his
miserable condition and why?
In "No Second Troy," the speaker does not
explicitly blame anyone for his miserable condition. Instead, he reflects upon
the impact of a woman's influence, likely Maud Gonne, on his life and the
broader world. The speaker grapples with complex emotions, avoiding direct
blame and instead contemplating the woman's role in shaping events.
The speaker acknowledges that the woman's actions have
led to misery, but he also acknowledges her potential for inspiring passion and
violence among people. He questions whether it is fair to hold her accountable
for inciting intense emotions or if her qualities are a reflection of the
tumultuous times they live in.
Ultimately, the poem focuses more on the consequences
of the woman's influence rather than placing explicit blame on her. The
speaker's reflections delve into the nature of conflict, the power of beauty,
and the intertwining of personal and historical narratives. Thus, the speaker's
contemplation encompasses a nuanced exploration of the complexities of love,
power, and their potential impact on individuals and society, rather than
assigning direct blame.
2. According to the speaker, how did the
woman play with the emotion of poor people?
According to the speaker in "No Second
Troy," the woman, likely referencing Maud Gonne, played with the emotions
of poor people by influencing and inciting them towards violent and intense
actions. The speaker suggests that she taught "ignorant men most violent
ways" and would have encouraged them to take bold actions if they had the
courage to do so. This implies that the woman had the ability to sway the
emotions and actions of those less privileged or informed, potentially leading
them towards tumultuous paths.
The speaker's portrayal of the woman as a figure who
could manipulate the sentiments of the common people underscores her powerful
and captivating nature. By using her influence, she could rouse those who
lacked the means to discern the consequences of their actions. This paints a
picture of the woman as someone who could rally the masses behind her ideals,
potentially leading to upheaval or unrest due to the intensity of the emotions
she could evoke.
In this way, the speaker suggests that the woman's
impact on those less fortunate was significant, emphasizing her ability to
incite strong reactions and shape events.
3. What does the speaker think of common
people's characteristics?
The speaker in "No Second Troy" portrays the
common people's characteristics as susceptible to being influenced and swayed
by powerful figures. The speaker suggests that the common people lack the
courage to match their desires, indicating a perceived weakness in their
nature. The phrase "had they but courage equal to desire" implies
that the common people's yearnings and desires are strong, but they lack the
resolve or bravery to act upon them.
The speaker's description underscores the idea that
the woman, likely Maud Gonne, possessed a compelling and charismatic presence
that could inspire the masses. By pointing out the disparity between desire and
action, the speaker indirectly comments on the common people's vulnerability to
external influences, particularly from individuals who possess the ability to
stoke their passions.
The speaker's reflection on the common people's
characteristics sheds light on the dynamics of power, influence, and the
potential for manipulation. The portrayal reveals a sense of the common
people's susceptibility to being swayed by those who possess the charisma and
strength to guide their emotions and actions.
4. Where does the poet bring the analogy
of the Trojan War for the first time in the poem?
The poet introduces the analogy of the Trojan War for
the first time in the poem "No Second Troy" with the lines:
"The speaker asks why he should blame her
That she would of late
Have taught to ignorant men most violent ways,"
In these lines, the poet draws a parallel between the
woman's influence and that of Helen of Troy. The speaker suggests that, like
Helen's actions leading to the Trojan War and the consequent destruction of
Troy, the woman's influence has also incited "ignorant men" towards
violent behavior. This comparison alludes to the historical event of the Trojan
War, known for its catastrophic outcomes due to Helen's beauty and the ensuing
conflict.
By introducing the analogy of the Trojan War, the poet
creates a layer of historical and mythological depth to the poem. This allusion
serves to highlight the potential for upheaval and destruction that can result
from the captivating influence of certain individuals, such as the woman being
discussed. The reference to the Trojan War adds to the complexity of the
woman's impact and underscores the theme of the destructive power of beauty and
passion.
5. How does the poet compare the
destructions caused by women in myth and reality?
The poet in "No Second Troy" compares the
destruction caused by women in myth and reality by drawing a parallel between
the woman in the poem and Helen of Troy. The speaker suggests that, like
Helen's beauty sparking the Trojan War and leading to the fall of Troy, the
woman's influence has also brought turmoil and conflict.
The reference to Helen of Troy serves as a metaphor
for the potential consequences of the woman's captivating presence. In both
cases, the allure of the women leads to upheaval, whether in the realm of myth
or in the speaker's personal experience. This comparison underscores the theme
of the destructive power of beauty and passion, linking historical events to
the speaker's emotions and reflections.
By juxtaposing the mythical destruction of Troy with
the impact of the woman's influence, the poet highlights the universal nature
of such conflicts. This suggests that throughout history, the captivating power
of certain individuals has had the potential to lead to chaos, whether in
ancient myths or in the speaker's contemporary reality. This comparison deepens
the exploration of the theme of love's potential for both enchantment and devastation.
6. Summarize the poem in 150 words.
"No Second Troy" by W.B. Yeats is a
reflective poem that delves into the complex emotions surrounding the speaker's
feelings for a woman, potentially Maud Gonne, a figure of political activism
and Yeats' unrequited love.
The poem draws parallels between the woman's influence
and the mythological figure of Helen of Troy, known for sparking the Trojan War
and the city's destruction. The speaker grapples with mixed feelings about the
woman, acknowledging her ability to incite intense emotions, potentially leading
to violence. The poem explores the tensions between admiration and resentment,
beauty and destruction. Through vivid language and historical allusions, the
poem delves into the theme of the destructive power of passion, drawing
connections between historical events and personal experiences.
The title "No Second Troy" reflects the idea
that the woman's influence and allure mirror the turmoil and conflicts
associated with mythological Troy, suggesting that powerful individuals have
the potential to shape history and emotions in profound and sometimes
destructive ways.
C. Long Questions
1. Analyze the tone of the poem. How
does the speaker look at the woman?
The tone of
"No Second Troy" by W.B. Yeats is marked by a complex mixture of
emotions, reflecting the speaker's conflicted feelings towards the woman he
addresses. The tone evolves from admiration to frustration, highlighting the
intricate relationship between love and disillusionment.
Initially, the
tone conveys a sense of reverence and admiration for the woman's captivating
qualities. The speaker describes her with awe, comparing her to a
"tightened bow" and acknowledging her noble and fiery nature. This
suggests a sense of enchantment and a deep appreciation for her strength and
individuality.
However, as the
poem progresses, the tone shifts to one of frustration and resentment. The
speaker questions her impact on "ignorant men" and suggests that she
may have incited violence. This change in tone reflects the conflict between
the woman's captivating nature and the potential consequences of her influence.
The speaker's contemplation of her role in sparking turmoil reveals a growing
sense of disillusionment, where the initial admiration gives way to a sense of
concern about the destruction she may inadvertently cause.
Ultimately, the
tone becomes one of reflection and resignation. The speaker ponders whether
there was another destiny for her, another "Troy" to burn, suggesting
a sense of inevitability in her role as a catalyst for conflicts. The phrase
"Was there another Troy for her to burn?" implies a recognition of
the woman's powerful influence, even if it leads to turmoil.
In looking at the woman, the speaker views her with a
mix of fascination, skepticism, and resignation. He acknowledges her
exceptional qualities and the impact she has on people, while also
contemplating the potential negative consequences of her influence. The tone
ultimately reflects a complex emotional journey, portraying both the allure and
the potential destructiveness of powerful individuals like the woman.
2. How is the poet different from the
woman in his perspective of doing politics?
In "No Second
Troy," the poet's perspective on doing politics differs from that of the
woman, likely Maud Gonne, who is portrayed as a figure of political activism.
While the woman is depicted as passionate and possibly willing to incite
violent actions, the poet's perspective on politics appears more measured and
contemplative.
The woman is
characterized as having the ability to rouse "ignorant men" towards
violent ways, reflecting a more assertive and perhaps radical approach to
political engagement. Her influence on people seems direct and immediate, with
potential consequences that may not have been fully considered. Her passionate
nature, symbolized by a "tightened bow," suggests a readiness to take
bold actions to bring about change.
In contrast, the
poet's perspective on politics appears to be more introspective and cautious.
He questions the woman's methods and the potential for chaos resulting from her
influence. The speaker's contemplative tone and his consideration of the
consequences indicate a more nuanced approach to politics. His inclination is
to ponder the outcomes before taking drastic actions, reflecting a sense of
responsibility and a desire to avoid the unintended fallout that the woman's
passionate activism might bring.
The differing perspectives on politics reflect a
contrast between immediate action and thoughtful consideration. While the
woman's approach seems more impulsive and fiery, the poet's perspective leans
towards a more reflective and restrained engagement with political issues. This
divergence highlights the complexity of political involvement and the various
ways individuals approach it. Ultimately, the poem presents a juxtaposition of
these two perspectives, exploring the potential benefits and drawbacks of both
passionate activism and more contemplative approaches to effecting change in
society.
3. What is allusion? What do you think
is the significance of mythical allusion in the poem?
An allusion is a
literary device in which a writer makes a brief and indirect reference to a
person, place, event, or work of literature, often with the intention of
enhancing the meaning of the text by drawing upon the associations and
significance associated with that reference.
In "No Second
Troy," the poet W.B. Yeats uses a mythical allusion to the story of Helen
of Troy, a figure from Greek mythology. Helen's beauty and her abduction by
Paris sparked the Trojan War, leading to the destruction of Troy. The
significance of this mythical allusion in the poem is multifold:
The allusion to
Helen of Troy deepens the emotional impact of the poem. Just as Helen's beauty
led to the ruin of Troy, the speaker suggests that the woman's allure and
influence may lead to turmoil and conflict. This adds layers of emotional
resonance, illustrating the potential destructive power of love and passion.
The allusion
connects the personal experience of the speaker with universal themes of love,
desire, and the consequences of powerful attraction. The story of Helen's
impact on history serves as a metaphor for the broader theme of individuals
who, through their captivating nature, have the potential to shape events in
profound ways.
The allusion adds
historical and literary depth to the poem, enriching its meaning by drawing on
a widely recognized mythological reference. This creates a sense of continuity
and intertextuality, as the story of Helen is woven into the contemporary
context of the poem.
The allusion
underscores the complexity of love and its ability to inspire both admiration
and destruction. By comparing the woman's influence to that of Helen, the poem
explores the intricate balance between the enchanting qualities of love and the
potential for turmoil.
The mythical allusion to Helen of Troy in "No
Second Troy" deepens the emotional impact of the poem, connects personal
experiences to universal themes, adds historical and literary depth, and
highlights the complex nature of love's allure and potential for destruction.
It enhances the poem's resonance and invites readers to consider the parallels
between personal emotions and timeless mythological narratives.
4. The poet gives instances of two
beautiful women who have caused death and destruction. Give two more examples
from history or fiction and describe how their beauty became the cause of war
and disaster.
Helen of Troy,
legendary beauty, triggered Trojan War. Her abduction by Paris sparked
conflict, leading to the fall of Troy. Symbolizes allure's potential for
devastation in Greek mythology. And Maud Gonne, Irish activist and muse to
Yeats, embodied beauty and political fervor. Unrequited love inspired Yeats'
poetry, symbolizing passion and societal change. Such two more examples from
history and fiction where the beauty of women became the cause of war and
disaster are Cleopatra and Mata Hari.
Cleopatra, the last ruler
of Ancient Egypt, was renowned for her beauty and charisma. Her romantic
relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony led to significant political
ramifications. Her relationships with these Roman leaders fueled tensions
between Rome and other powers of the time. The rivalry and conflicts stemming from
her affairs contributed to the downfall of both Antony and Cleopatra
themselves. The Battle of Actium, fought between Antony's forces and those of
Octavian (later Emperor Augustus), ultimately resulted in the defeat of Antony
and Cleopatra. Their deaths marked the end of the Ptolemaic dynasty and Egypt's
transition to Roman rule.
Mata Hari, a Dutch exotic
dancer and alleged spy during World War I, is another example where beauty
became intertwined with espionage and disaster. She used her charm and attractiveness
to gain favor among influential men, and her relationships led to suspicions of
espionage on behalf of Germany. Though her actual involvement in espionage
remains debated, her allure and seductive persona contributed to the intrigue
surrounding her. She was ultimately accused of being a double agent and was
executed by the French in 1917. Her story exemplifies how beauty and
manipulation can intersect with espionage and international conflicts.
These examples emphasize the recurring theme in history
and fiction where the allure of beautiful women has been linked to power
struggles, conflict, and destruction. Such instances highlight the potency of
physical attraction and charisma in shaping historical events and human
behavior, often leading to catastrophic outcomes. They underscore the
complexities of human nature and the intricate interplay between personal
appeal, politics, and the broader consequences of actions driven by attraction.
Best of Luck
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