Helen Of Troy On The Isle Of Cranae

By Ella Wheeler Wilcox

Sonnet
    The world an abject vassal to her charms,     And kings competing for a single smile,     Yet love she knew not, till upon this isle     She gave surrender to abducting arms.     Not Theseus, who plucked her lips' first kiss,          Not Menelaus, lawful mate and spouse,          Such answering passion in her heart could rouse,     Or wake such tumult in her soul as this.     Let come what will, let Greece and Asia meet,          Let heroes die and kingdoms run with gore;          Let devastation spread from shore to shore -     Resplendent Helen finds her bondage sweet.     The whole world fights her battles, while she lies     Sunned in the fervour of young Paris' eyes.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem presents a vivid portrayal of Helen of Troy, recounting her relationships and experiences in a romantic and tragic context. The central themes include love, war, and personal agency. The speaker notes that, though Helen was desired by many, only with Paris did she find reciprocal passion. This exploration of Helen's autonomy and her decision to follow her heart, despite the catastrophic consequences, is echoed in the richly dramatic tone that pervades the poem.

Structurally, the poem is composed in a tightly woven sonnet form, which serves to encapsulate the intensity and complexity of the narrative within a concise framework. The use of contrast is a key literary device in the poem, particularly in the juxtaposition of the violent, global conflict with the intimate, personal relationship between Helen and Paris. This serves to highlight both the scale of the impact of Helen's choice and the depth of her love for Paris. The final couplet, in particular, emphasizes this contrast and encapsulates the essence of the poem: while the world is embroiled in a brutal war because of her, Helen is lost in the bliss of her lover's gaze. This suggests a perspective on Helen that is both sympathetic and critical, underscoring the complexity of her character and her story.

Understanding the Sonnet

The sonnet is one of the most enduring and celebrated forms of poetry, known for its strict structure and profound themes. With a history spanning centuries, sonnets have been used to explore love, beauty, politics, and mortality, all within the confines of just 14 lines.

Sonnets are characterized by their precise form and rhyme scheme, which vary depending on the type of sonnet. Here’s a closer look:

  • Shakespearean (English) Sonnet: Composed of three quatrains followed by a final couplet, with a rhyme scheme of ABABCDCDEFEFGG. This form often builds a complex argument or narrative, culminating in a powerful closing statement.
  • Petrarchan (Italian) Sonnet: Divided into an octave (eight lines) and a sestet (six lines), with a typical rhyme scheme of ABBAABBA for the octave, followed by various patterns in the sestet such as CDECDE or CDCDCD. The octave usually presents a problem, with the sestet providing a resolution.
  • Meter: Sonnets are traditionally written in iambic pentameter, which gives the poem a rhythmic and melodic quality that enhances its emotional impact.

The sonnet’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to condense complex emotions and ideas into a small but potent package, making it a favorite form for poets seeking to explore profound themes with precision and elegance.