The Beggar Maid

By Alfred Lord Tennyson

Ballad
Her arms across her breast she laid; She was more fair than words can say; Barefooted came the beggar maid Before the king Cophetua. In robe and crown the king stept down, To meet and greet her on her way; It is no wonder, said the lords, She is more beautiful than day. As shines the moon in clouded skies, She in her poor attire was seen; One praised her ankles, one her eyes, One her dark hair and lovesome mien. So sweet a face, such angel grace, In all that land had never been. Cophetua sware a royal oath: This beggar maid shall be my queen!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a romantic narrative, chronicling the tale of a king, Cophetua, and a beggar maid. The key themes include love, beauty, and the subversion of societal norms. The tone is enchanting and dreamlike, painting a romanticized picture of a beggar woman whose beauty transcends her humble circumstances.

The structure is straightforward, using a simple ABAB rhyme scheme that enhances the narrative flow. The poet's use of vivid imagery is prominent, creating a stark contrast between the beggar maid's poverty and her captivating beauty. The metaphor comparing her to the moon shining in clouded skies further emphasizes her ability to stand out despite her lowly status. The king's decision to make her his queen, despite their vastly different social standings, is a potent symbol of love's power to transcend societal boundaries.

The poem also employs personification effectively, giving the collective 'lords' a voice to express their admiration for the beggar maid. The resultant effect is a multi-layered portrayal of the beggar maid's beauty, seen not only through the king’s eyes but also the observing lords. This collective admiration deepens her character, emphasizing her exceptional allure.

In conclusion, this poem is a compelling exploration of unconventional love and the transformative power of beauty, delivered through rich imagery, personification, and a simple yet effective structure.

Understanding Ballads

A ballad is a form of verse, often a narrative set to music, that has been a cornerstone of storytelling across various cultures. Traditionally passed down orally, ballads are known for their rhythmic structure and often tell tales of love, adventure, and heroism.

Ballads are characterized by their strong rhythm and repetition, making them both memorable and engaging. Here are some defining features:

  • Narrative Structure: Ballads typically tell a story, often a dramatic or emotional tale that unfolds in a straightforward, chronological order.
  • Quatrain Stanzas: Most ballads are composed of quatrains (four-line stanzas) with a rhyme scheme of ABAB or ABCB, which adds to the musicality of the verse.
  • Repetition: Refrains or repeated lines are common in ballads, helping to emphasize key themes or emotions and making the ballad easier to remember.
  • Oral Tradition: Many ballads originated from oral traditions, which means they were passed down through generations by word of mouth before being written down.

From medieval minstrels to contemporary songwriters, ballads have continued to evolve, remaining a beloved form of expression that captures the human experience in a way that is both poetic and accessible.