IndexIntroductionThe enclosure in "The Lady of Shalott"Liberation and the dichotomy between shadows and lightUlysses: the enclosure of return HomeThe Palace of Art: Isolation and FragmentationConclusionWorks CitedIntroductionThe theme of enclosure or entrapment permeates the poetry of Alfred, Lord Tennyson, offering a lens through which we can examine the complexities of human existence. This essay delves into the concept of enclosure in Tennyson's "The Lady of Shalott" and explores its manifestations in other poems such as "Ulysses" and "The Palace of Art." Through critical analysis, we investigate subjects' tacit acceptance of these states and the resulting fragmentation of the self, which ultimately leads to entrapment or liberation. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Contained in "The Lady of Shalott" In "The Lady of Shalott", the eponymous heroine finds herself confined to a tower on a river-island, forced to weave images she sees in a mirror. His entrapment is both literal and physical, as he cannot leave his tower due to an inexplicable mystical force. Surprisingly, the Lady appears satisfied with her situation and takes pleasure in her work: "But in her web she still enjoys weaving the magical visions of her mirror." However, a dichotomous relationship emerges between the Lady and the outside world. Shalott and the tower symbolize stillness, while the world on the banks of the river is constantly changing. This contrast extends to the color palette, with the Lady's monochromatic environment juxtaposed against the vibrant hues of the real world. Her entrapment forces her to engage with life vicariously, as her creations become her interpretation of reality. Interestingly, the Lady's acceptance of her situation appears to be tacit, driven by an internal desire to achieve perfection within her limitations. This notion is exemplified by her uncertainty regarding the curse that binds her, as she "heard in a whisper." His imprisonment is a form of self-imposed slavery to his art and his creation, in which he actively participates. In the third part of the poem, the Lady rejects her captivity upon seeing Sir Lancelot on the riverbank. Lancelot's image, like the Lady's mirror, is dazzling and reflects light, in stark contrast to the shadows presented by her static mirror. Lancelot becomes the catalyst for her discontent, leading her to flee. Liberation and dichotomy between shadows and light The journey from seclusion to liberation in "The Lady of Shalott" is characterized by a dichotomy between shadows and light. The Lady's initial acceptance of her situation is marked by her commitment to weaving the "magical visions" presented by her mirror. However, it becomes clear that these visions are mere shadows of the real world, devoid of personal experience or genuine connection. Lancelot, as a symbol of the outside world, shatters this illusion. His presence is described in radiant terms: "All in the blue and clear weather, thick with jewels, the saddle leather shone, the helmet and the helmet plume burned together like a blazing flame." Here Lancelot is not a shadow but a vivid manifestation of reality, challenging the Lady's complacency. It is crucial to note that Lancelot's impact is not exclusively auditory but predominantly visual. The Lady's mirror, static and limited in its ability to capture the richness of life, can offer only shadows. In contrast, Lancelot's armor, like a moving mirror, reflects the light of the world. When"flashes in the crystal mirror", the Lady's world changes irreversibly. The mirror, previously his source of comfort, becomes a symbol of his seclusion. The Lady's escape from Shalott marks her transition to liberation, albeit a bittersweet one. Physically he never touches the river bank but remains in the boat. Her clothing also undergoes a transformation from monochromatic purity to vibrant reds and crimsons. This change demonstrates a maturation of freedom, where she accepts it on her own terms. Notably, the Lady takes the time to write her name on the boat, a deliberate affirmation and confirmation of her identity. She no longer relies on the mirror or the shadows it produces, but embraces the outside world, even if that leads to her end. Ulysses: The Homecoming EnclosureIn "Ulysses," Tennyson explores a different form of enclosure: Odysseus's desire for the freedom of travel and adventure. Paradoxically, Odysseus laments the "freedom" of staying at home and ruling his land, longing for the excitement and diversity of a life filled with travel and war. His identity is marked by a disconnect between the static life at home and the dynamic experiences he once enjoyed. Odysseus's complaint reflects his awareness that his identity has become fragmented, making him a king whose people do not know him. He consciously chooses to cede his rule to Telemachus, recognizing that his true self lies in adventure and exploration. The polarity of his experiences, great and painful, adds depth to his lament. The Palace of Art: Isolation and Fragmentation "The Palace of Art" portrays a solitary girl living in a splendid palace, indulging in various experiences. Similar to "The Lady of Shalott", this maiden respects her solitude and embraces her duty to perfect the artistic soul. His acceptance of isolation suggests an inherent belief in the necessity of his isolation. However, the poem alludes to an inexplicable change in the girl's nature, which leads to her downfall after three years of contentment. Unlike “The Lady of Shalott,” her entrapment stems from a lack of personal experience and human connection. The fate of the girl in "The Palace of Art" serves as a warning about the dangers of isolation and detachment from human experience. Although he initially thrives in his artistic isolation, the absence of authentic human connection ultimately leads to his tragic end. His narrative highlights the importance of the balance between personal solitude and social commitment. Conclusion Alfred, Lord Tennyson's poems, including "The Lady of Shalott," "Ulysses," and "The Palace of Art," delve into themes of seclusion and liberation. The subjects of these poems often accept their states of entrapment with a sense of tacit obedience. Over time, this acceptance can give way to a fragmentation of the self, prompting deliberate actions to change one's destiny. In "The Lady of Shalott", the Lady's contentment changes upon seeing Sir Lancelot, while "Ulysses" portrays a king longing for his former life of adventure. "The Palace of Art" explores a young girl's isolation, which ultimately leads to her downfall. These poems offer profound insights into the human condition, highlighting the complexities of self-acceptance and the desire for personal liberation. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay As we contemplate the themes of seclusion and liberation in Tennyson's poetry, they remind us of the ongoing human search for authenticity and self-discovery. Both through the shadows and the light of the Lady's mirror, the desire for adventure of. 133.